Ricciardo tested negative for covid, participation in Bahrain GP certain

Good news for Daniel Ricciardo. McLaren has confirmed that the driver has recovered a negative coronation test and that he will therefore be able to participate in the Bahrain Grand Prix as normal.

After Ricciardo tested positive for the coronavirus during the winter test in Bahrain, he had to go into self-isolation. This made even his participation in the Bahrain Grand Prix uncertain and a number of possible replacements were already mentioned. The name of Nyck de Vries was mentioned and Alpine offered to lend Oscar Piastri to the team.

Fortunately, a replacement does not appear to be necessary, the racing stable from Woking announced. "The team can confirm that Daniel has returned a number of negative tests, and will therefore return to the paddock on Thursday to take part in the Bahrain Grand Prix," the statement reads.

McLaren also states that Ricciardo has been feeling better each day while in isolation, so he is expected to participate symptom-free in the opening weekend of the new Formula One season.