Daniel Ricciardo has tested positive for Covid-19 and is isolating in Bahrain, but the McLaren driver is expected to be released in time for next weekend's Bahrain Grand Prix.
The Aussie had not been feeling well in the past few days, his condition forcing him to pull out of testing on Thursday and again on Friday, with teammate Lando Norris handling testing duties for McLaren for the entire duration of both sessions.
The Briton will be the papaya squad's sole representative again on Saturday, the third and final day of F1's pre-season preparations.
But while Ricciardo will remain in isolation according to local Covid rules, he is expected to be released in time for next week's opening round of the 2022 F1 World Championship that will take place in Sakhir.
"McLaren Racing can confirm that after feeling unwell from Wednesday onwards in Bahrain, Daniel Ricciardo has now returned a positive PCR test for covid-19," read a short statement from McLzren released on Fridat-y evening.
"Daniel is therefore continuing to isolate in accordance with local regulations.
"Under these regulations Daniel will be released in time for next weekend’s Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix. Daniel is already beginning to feel better, and we wish him well for a quick recovery.
"Following this, we can confirm that Lando Norris will remain in the MCL36 for the final day of the official pre-season test in Bahrain tomorrow."
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