Title: Lewis Hamilton Sidelines for Sakhir Grand Prix due to COVID-19 Diagnosis
Extending an unexpected twist to the Formula 1 scene, Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time world champion, found himself in a self-imposed quarantine, following a positive test result for coronavirus. Remaining optimistic amidst his mild symptoms, Hamilton announced the development through his Mercedes team, who wished him a swift recovery.
The revelation came after Hamilton completed a series of three tests in the past week, including one at the Bahrain International Circuit, where he secured a victory in the Bahrain Grand Prix. Each of these tests returned negative results. However, upon waking up with slight symptoms on Monday, Hamilton learned that one of his close contacts prior to arriving in Bahrain had tested positive. Additional tests subsequently confirmed his positive result.
Disheartened by his inability to participate in this weekend's races, Hamilton expressed his frustration through social media, highlighting the stringent safety measures taken by both his team and himself since the season kickoff in June. Despite maintaining weekly negative test results, Hamilton developed symptoms and requested another test, regrettably resulting in a positive result.
Mercedes has opted to replace Hamilton for this weekend's Sakhir Grand Prix, scheduled to take place in Bahrain during the final weekend of November and the opening weekend of December, marking the third doubleheader of the Formula 1 2020 season.
Motorsports and COVID-19
Motorsports events such as the Sakhir Grand Prix are under close scrutiny for COVID-19 cases. During the previous season, Mexican driver Sergio Perez and Canadian Lance Stroll also tested positive for the virus.
Hamilton's Victory and Championship Chances
Hamilton's victory in Bahrain last week secured him his 95th career win, breaking a personal record for the most victories in a single Formula 1 season. With such a remarkable performance, Hamilton surpassed Michael Schumacher's record of seven world championship titles.
Despite Hamilton missing the Sakhir Grand Prix, his chances of breaking another record remained slim since the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix follows immediately.
Impact of COVID-19 on Formula 1 Racing
COVID-19 protocols and testing have significantly impacted Formula 1 racing. Among changes, numerous races were behind closed doors or with reduced audience capacity to prevent the spread of the virus. Hamilton's absence from the Sakhir Grand Prix marked his first race absence since his debut in 2007.
Other impacts included restrictions on car development, with the FIA implementing a token system for new car components in the 2021 season. Several races were postponed or canceled due to the pandemic, and new regulations were delayed until the following year.
Testing restrictions also limited drivers to 1,000 kilometers of testing over four days to control the spread of the virus and prevent excessive testing. In spite of these challenges, Hamilton returned with an outstanding performance, clinching the title with three rounds to spare at the rain-affected Turkish Grand Prix. He ultimately finished the season 124 points ahead of second-placed Bottas.
