Perez could return for second Silverstone F1 race

Sergio Perez could make an unexpected return for Racing Point at Formula 1’s 70th Anniversary Grand Prix this weekend if he provides a negative test for COVID-19.

The Mexican became the first F1 driver to be ruled out of a grand prix weekend when he contracted coronavirus ahead of the British Grand Prix, following a positive test that was confirmed on the Thursday.

Nico Hulkenberg stood-in for Perez to complete a surprise comeback to the F1 grid at Silverstone, though he failed to take the start of Sunday’s race after Racing Point discovered an engine issue when he attempted to leave the garage to head to the grid.

Hulkenberg was tipped to continue deputising for Perez at the second Silverstone round this weekend, though Racing Point stressed it was waiting for clarification on the situation after the UK government changed its quarantine policy for those who tested positive for COVID-19 to isolate for 10 days instead of the previous seven. 

Following some confusion over whether Perez would have to undertake seven or 10 days of isolation, Public Health England confirmed to Racing Point on Thursday that his period of quarantine has been completed.

Perez will therefore be cleared to return to the cockpit of his RP20 at Silverstone as long as he can provide a verified negative test result, which all F1 personnel must produce before they can enter the paddock.

“Public Health England have confirmed that Sergio Perez’s period of quarantine has been completed,” a Racing Point team statement read.

"In line with the FIA Code Of Conduct, Sergio requires a verified negative test result for COVID-19 before he can enter the paddock. The testing process is taking place today.

“The team expects to make a decision on who is driving alongside Lance later today or first thing tomorrow morning.”

Hulkenberg, whose last F1 race start came at the 2019 season finale in Abu Dhabi with Renault, is taking Perez's place to fulfil the team's media duties at Silverstone on Thursday.