Australian GP issues update on nine F1 paddock coronavirus tests
Australian Grand Prix promoters are "in discussions" with the FIA, Formula 1 and the Victorian state regarding the "broader implications" of a McLaren team member testing positive for coronavirus.
A statement from the Australian Grand Prix Corporation, attributed to its CEO Andrew Westacott, revealed that eight F1 personnel have been tested for COVID-19 following the F1 paddock's arrival to Melbourne ahead of Sunday's scheduled season opener.
Seven of the tests came up negative, but a McLaren team member has tested positive, leading to the Woking-based outfit's withdrawal from the event.
Westacott also notes that another individual "not associated with any Formula 1 team, the FIA or associated suppliers" has been tested for coronavirus, with the results of the test still pending. The individual is understood to be a local photographer.
Westacott's full statement reads: "The Australian Grand Prix Corporation and Formula 1 have been advised by the Victorian Chief Health Officer of the results of tests relating to eight personnel from the Formula 1 Paddock.
"Of these eight tests, seven individuals have returned a negative result confirming that they do not have the COVID-19 virus. An eighth individual has tested positive for the COVID-19 virus. It has been confirmed that the individual was a member of the McLaren Racing Team. As a result of this, McLaren has announced its withdrawal from the Formula 1 Rolex Australian Grand Prix 2020.
"The AGPC is currently in discussions with Formula 1, the FIA and the Department of Health and Human Services in relation to the broader implications of this test result.
"Additionally, a ninth individual has been assessed and tested for the COVID-19 virus, with the results of this test pending. This individual is not associated with any Formula 1 team, the FIA or associated suppliers.
"The AGPC will provide updates as further details become available."
A statement has also been released by F1 and the championship's governing body FIA. It reads: "Following the outcome of the test on a member the McLaren team, F1 and FIA have been in close contact with them on their decision and have been coordinating with all relevant authorities on next steps. Our priority is the safety of the fans, teams and all personnel at the race."
Share Or Save This Story
WTCR's April opener cancelled due to coronavirus
Motorsport Games unveils 15 disciplines for 2020
MotoGP calendar revised again as COTA race postponed
Rasmussen and Boulle coast to Indianapolis LMP2 victory for Era Motorsport with epic fuel save
Carlos Sainz backs bold approach for Williams junior Will Green's racing future
Factory WRC driver Esapekka Lappi to pause professional rallying career
Guenther Steiner predicts Max Verstappen will go winless in 2026 F1 season
Great debate: Which circuit should host the F1 2026 finale if the calendar has to change?
Italy’s next F1 world champion?
What's behind the talks between the FIA president and Fernando Alonso over ADUO?
Fernando Alonso is right to sound the alarm about F1 - but history seems to be repeating itself
Subscribe and access Motorsport.com with your ad-blocker.
From Formula 1 to MotoGP we report straight from the paddock because we love our sport, just like you. In order to keep delivering our expert journalism, our website uses advertising. Still, we want to give you the opportunity to enjoy an ad-free and tracker-free website and to continue using your adblocker.
Top Comments