Hamilton gets all-clear to race for Mercedes in Abu Dhabi!

Lewis Hamilton has been given the all-clear by the FIA to race with Mercedes in this weekend's Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

Mercedes announced that Hamilton had tested negative for COVID-19 on Wednesday, after over completing a period of isolation in Bahrain.

The seven-time world champion subsequently traveled to Abu Dhabi on Thursday afternoon where he tested negative on arrival.

"Lewis has there completed the protocols required by the FIA for his entry into the paddock tomorrow and will be able to take part in the race weekend," said Mercedes in a statement released on Thursday evening.

The news obviously implies that Mercedes stand-in George Russell will return to Williams for this weekend's final race of the 2020 season, much to the chagrin of the popular Briton's many fans.

Finally, Russell's move back to the Grove-based outfit also means that Jack Aiken will not enjoy a second outing with Williams this season.

Russell immediately reacted to the news on social media with a positive message.

"Glad to see Lewis Hamilton back and fighting fit," he tweeted. "Had a blast with Mercedes but now I’m buzzing to put everything I’ve learned into action with my team Williams.

"Gonna give it everything this weekend - just as they do for me week in, week out."

George is a class act!

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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.