Russian Formula One rookie Nikita Mazepin will not race in Sunday’s season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix after testing positive for COVID-19, his Haas team said.
Mazepin will not be replaced and Haas will run with only one driver, Mick Schumacher, because rules prohibit a driver who has not taken part in at least one session from racing on Sunday.
“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,” the American team’s statement said.
Due to a positive COVID-19 test result, @nikita_mazepin will not compete in today's #AbuDhabiGP#HaasF1 https://t.co/H5c9jrPMmK— Haas F1 Team (@HaasF1Team) December 12, 2021
Mazepin, who was set to start last on the grid, is the eighth driver to have tested positive for COVID-19 since last season.
The 22-year-old, who will be staying at Haas alongside Schumacher next year, had appeared in a video released by Formula One on Saturday, urging people to get vaccinated.
Formula One teams have operated in a protective bubble with regular testing since last year, though protocols have been eased and fans allowed back at races in high numbers.
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