McLaren driver Daniel Ricciardo has tested positive for COVID-19, but will be out of isolation in time for next week's Bahrain season-opener.
The Aussie had felt unwell since Thursday, and missed testing at the Sakhir circuit on Friday and Saturday, but the team says their 2021 Italian GP winner is already on the mend.
They add that Ricciardo, 32, will continue to isolate in accordance with local regulations.
"Under these regulations, Daniel will be released in time for next weekend's... Bahrain Grand Prix. Daniel is already beginning to feel better and we wish him well for a quick recovery."
Practice for the opening race is next Friday and Ricciardo will go into it without driving the car since Barcelona on February 24.
British teammate Lando Norris, 22, tested in Ricciardo's absence and will be back in the car for the final day on Sunday.
"Better this week than next," says Ricciardo on Twitter. "Unfortunate to miss the test, but I'm starting to feel better. I'll stay isolated and just focus on next weekend.
"Big thanks to Lando & McLaren for the heavy lifting, I owe you some beers (milk for Lando)," he continues, poking fun at his baby-faced teammate Norris.
Bahrain is something of a home race for McLaren, with the team majority-owned by the Gulf kingdom's sovereign investment fund Mumtalakat. Ricciardo finished seventh last year, with Norris fourth.
Reuters/Newshub.
