Ricciardo set to race at the 2022 Bahrain Grand Prix

The Australian was ruled out of pre-season testing in Bahrain last week, feeling ill at first, then testing positive for Covid-19 after that.

That meant that Lando Norris was on driving duty during the three days of the Bahrain test, as the Honey Badger remained in isolation recovering from his illness.

McLaren seemed to be concerned at some point that their driver might not be fit for racing in time for the season opener, and had an agreement with Alpine by which the French team would lend them their reserve driver Oscar Piastri should the need to arise.

McLaren confirmed today in a statement on twitter, that Ricciardo has since returned several negative Covid-19 tests, and is fit for driving at the Bahrain Grand Prix.

As per the health regulations in Bahrain, where Ricciardo was isolating, the 32-year-old driver will be present at the paddock on Thursday to start his preparations for the race weekend.

Needless to mention, the time Ricciardo lost behind the wheel of the MCL36 in testing will serve as a challenge for him as he gears up for the 2022 season.