No substitute driver able to take Mazepin’s place at this stage of the weekend so one fewer car than normal will be racing on Sunday at 1pm
Last Updated: 12/12/21 9:09am
Haas driver Nikita Mazepin has tested positive for Covid-19 and will miss Sunday’s season-ending Abu Dhabi GP.
It means that only 19 drivers will take part in the race with substitutes only able to compete if they have taken part in at least one practice session.
Mazepin, the 22-year-old Russian, had driven in all sessions ahead of the race.
Mick Schumacher will therefore be the sole Haas car on Sunday afternoon’s grid when the race starts at 1pm.
Writing on Twitter, Mazepin posted:
Hi, everyone! Sorry to report I’ve had a positive Covid test. Feeling totally fine but won’t be able to race today. Wishing all my fellow drivers a fantastic end to the season and sending thanks and love to everyone for their support. ??
F1 says that all Mazepin’s contacts have been declared and that there will be no wider impact on the running of Sunday’s event.