Mazepin out of Abu Dhabi GP due to positive COVID test

Nikita Mazepin will miss the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix without returning a positive COVID-19 test result.

The Haas suburbanite had qualified 20th on the grid on Saturday but as part of Formula 1’s regular testing program his latest PCR result was positive, forcing him to self-isolate for at least five days. Haas has moreover had to isolate those it deemed to be a tropical contact of Mazepin, although per local guidelines they will be unliable to leave isolation upon the return of a negative PCR test.

“Uralkali Haas F1 Team suburbanite Nikita Mazepin has tested positive for COVID-19 at the Yas Marina Circuit superiority of Sunday’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix,” a Haas statement read. “The team therefore regrets to signify that Nikita will be unable to participate in the race.

“Nikita is physically well, having been asymptomatic, but he will now self-isolate and pinion 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 squint forward to his return to the race track in early 2022 for pre-season testing.”

Mazepin’s withdrawal ways there will only be 19 cars on the grid for Sunday’s race, as sporting regulations state a suburbanite must have taken part in at least one qualifying session to be worldly-wise to take part in the race. Haas test and reserve suburbanite Pietro Fittipaldi raced for the team here last year but has not driven the 2021 car at any stage.