F1 working on 'next steps' after McLaren withdrawal

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Formula 1 is assessing along with the FIA the sport's situation in Australia after McLaren's withdrawal from this weekend's opening round in Melbourne.

McLaren decided on Thursday not to take part in the Australian Grand Prix after a member of its team tested positive for the coronavirus at Albert Park.

Overall, eight F1 personnel, including members of Haas, were tested for the COVID-19 disease according to the Australian Grand Prix Corporation, with all tests coming back negative with the exception of the McLaren team member.

McLaren withdraws from the Australian GP!

"Following the outcome of the test on a member the McLaren team, F1 and FIA have been in close contact with them on their decision and have been co-ordinating with all relevant authorities on next steps," F1 said in a statement released late on Thursday in Melbourne.

"Our priority is the safety of the fans, teams and all personnel at the race."

It is being reported that a crucial meeting to decide the fate of this weekend's event is set to be held early on Friday morning in Melbourne between F1, the FIA, AGPC CEO Andrew Westacott and representatives of the state of Victoria.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.