Vettel does not have negative test yet, Hulkenberg along to Saudi Arabia

Sebastian Vettel is not yet able to fly to Saudi Arabia for the upcoming Grand Prix. Aston Martin is hoping the German can still pass a negative test, but is taking Nico Hulkenberg as a possible replacement.

Hulkenberg back in action

Vettel was unable to compete at the Bahrain Grand Prix due to a positive coronal test. The German is doing well, but seems to be in trouble for the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. Aston Martin reported on Thursday morning that the driver has still not tested negative.

As in Bahrain, Hulkenberg will travel to Jeddah as a reserve driver. Aston Martin hopes that Vettel can still be flown to the circuit in time, but as long as he does not test negative he is not allowed on a plane. Hulkenberg is the replacement if necessary, which would mean that Vettel misses the first two races with this new generation of cars.

UPDATE: Sebastian Vettel has not yet returned the required negative COVID test to fly to the #SaudiArabiaGP. Nico Hülkenberg will be in Jeddah to deputise for Seb if necessary. We will delay our final decision until Friday to provide Seb every opportunity to race.

— Aston Martin Aramco Cognizant F1 Team (@AstonMartinF1) March 24, 2022