Nikita Mazepin has been ruled out from F1 Abu Dhabi GP due to positive COVID-19 test and will not be replaced in the grand prix.
Haas’ Mazepin becomes the second F1 driver in 2021 to miss a grand prix due to COVID-19 after Kimi Raikkonen did earlier in the season. The Russians’s positive test in the Sunday test means he is forced to miss the Abu Dhabi GP at Yas Marina circuit.
A statement from Haas notes that Mazepin is asymptomatic and is fine overall. He will self-isolate and will miss the 18-inches tyre test next week too. Mick Schumacher will be driving and Pietro Fittipaldi could replace the Russian if the team decides too.
“Uralkali Haas F1 Team driver Nikita Mazepin has tested positive for COVID-19 at the Yas Marina Circuit ahead of Sunday’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The team therefore regrets to announce that Nikita will be unable to participate in the race.
“Nikita is physically well, having been asymptomatic, but he will now self-isolate and adhere to the guidelines of the relevant public health authorities, with safety the ultimate priority for all parties concerned.
“Uralkali Haas F1 Team wish Nikita well and we look forward to his return to the race track in early 2022 for pre-season testing,” said the statement from Haas, who will field just the one car in the Abu Dhabi GP. They have also isolated the appropriate people believed to be close in contact with Mazepin.
Here’s what was said after Saturday in F1 Abu Dhabi GP