Red Bull's Wheatley isolates after positive COVID-19 test

Red Bull Racing sporting director Jonathan Wheatley will not attend this weekend's Bahrain Grand Prix, having tested positive for COVID-19.

Wheatley tested positive following Red Bull's routine pre-race screening, according to a statement released on Thursday morning by the Milton Keynes-based outfit.

"We can confirm that during mandatory pre-race testing in the UK, sporting director Jonathan Wheatley tested positive for COVID-19," the team said.

"In accordance with official protocols he will continue to isolate for the 10 day period and not attend the Bahrain GP.

"Jonathan's duties will be shared by a number of team personnel at this weekend's Bahrain GP.

"The positive test has not resulted in any other team members needing to isolate following contact tracing and will not affect the team's trackside operations."

Read also: Vettel expects COVID pandemic to 'dictate' start of 2021

Wheatley's positive test follows that of Williams team principal Simon Roberts who was forced to skip the Turkish Grand Prix. However, the Briton is fit and well after a period of self-isolation and will be on deck in Bahrain.

Pirelli F1 boss Mario Isola who also tested positive for the coronavirus is also expected to return to the paddock at Sakhir this weekend.

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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.