Champion Lewis Hamilton, who wrapped up a record-equalling seventh world title last month, is isolating in line with Bahrain's guidelines after testing positive for COVID-19.
The Briton's Formula 1 and Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team along with the sports governing body FIA, confirmed that during mandatory pre-race PCR testing for the Sakhir Grand Prix, Hamilton tested positive for the virus.
In a statement, the FIA said "All contacts have been declared. The procedures set out by the FIA and Formula 1 will ensure no wider impact on this weekend’s event."
Mercedes will announce his replacement later - their reserve drivers are former F1 pilots Stoffel Vandoorne and Esteban Gutierrez.
#F1 - Statement on COVID-19 Test Result for Lewis Hamiltonhttps://t.co/wIa9fMFk2o
— FIA (@fia) December 1, 2020
Al Nassr secure semi-final spot in AFC Champions League 2 with victory over Al Wasl
Advantage Man City as Haaland seals crucial win over Arsenal
Bayern Munich win Bundesliga title with victory against VfB Stuttgart
Fils powers past Rublev to win Barcelona Open
Liverpool's Van Dijk scores late winner in derby win over Everton
