Lewis Hamilton out of Sakhir Grand Prix after testing positive for COVID-19

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