01/12/2020
NEWS STORY
After testing positive for the coronavirus, Lewis Hamilton admits he is devastated to be missing this weekend's race on the Sakhir 'oval'.
Earlier today, Mercedes revealed that having tested positive for COVID, the seven-time world champion would not participate in this weekend's race and is in isolation.
Taking to social media, the Briton admitted that he is devastated to miss the unique race which will take place on the oval configuration at the Bahrain International Circuit.
"Hi guys, I'm devastated that I won't be racing this weekend," he wrote. "Since we started the season in June, my team and I have been taking all the precautions we possibly can and following the regulations everywhere we've been in order to stay safe.
"Unfortunately even though I returned three negative results this past week I woke up yesterday morning with mild symptoms and requested another test which came back positive. I've immediately gone into self-isolation for 10 days.
"I'm gutted not to be able to race this weekend," he admitted, "but my priority is to follow the protocols and advice to protect others.
"I'm really lucky that I feel OK with only mild symptoms and will do my best to stay fit and healthy.
"Please look after yourselves out there, you can never be too careful. These are worrying times for everyone and we need to make sure we are looking after ourselves and each other."
Mercedes has yet to confirm who will replace the Briton.