Lewis Hamilton is scheduled to miss the next Sakhir GP after testing positive for coronavirus this morning. The seven-time world champion will have to sit out of a race for the first time in his career. By missing the race this weekend, Lewis loses out on a chance to record most wins in a single season.
After this news, Lewis Hamilton reached out to his fans and Formula 1 community and apologized for the unfortunate situation. He explained that he was heartbroken at missing his first race of a shining career.
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Meanwhile, he stated that he is following the protocols and that limiting the virus is one of the most important things at the moment. He informed his followers that he is only experiencing mild symptoms and is doing his best to keep safe and healthy. His current priority is to get himself ready for the last race of the season at Abu Dhabi.
Lewis Hamilton misses out on setting another record
The record is currently held by Michael Schumacher and Sebastian Vettel, who recorded 13 wins in 2004 and 2013, respectively. According to reports, “Lewis was tested three times last week and returned a negative result each time, the last of which was on Sunday afternoon at the Bahrain International Circuit.”
“However, he woke up on Monday morning with mild symptoms and was informed at the same time that a contact prior to arrival in Bahrain had subsequently tested positive.
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“Lewis therefore took a further test and returned a positive result. This has since been confirmed by a retest,” continued the Mercedes F1 team.
Ever since this was announced, the Formula 1 community has been debating on who will replace the world champion. Reports suggest that it could be either Stoffel Vandoorne or Nico Hulkenberg. Vandoorne is Mercedes’ replacement driver and is scheduled to fly to Bahrain tonight. Meanwhile, Hulkenberg has already driven three races as a replacement driver.
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Hamilton is currently in isolation and following FIA protocols and public health authority in Bahrain. The authorities have traced his contacts over the weekend and the FIA is dealing with that as well.
Read More – Here’s Who Could Replace Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes for the Sakhir GP