Perez still positive for COVID-19, Hulkenberg in for second F1 race

Nico Hulkenberg will continue to drive for the Racing Point Formula 1 team at this weekend’s 70th Anniversary Grand Prix at Silverstone after Sergio Perez returned a second positive test for COVID-19.

Hulkenberg acted as stand-in for Perez at the British Grand Prix after the Mexican became the first F1 driver to contract coronavirus, with the 32-year-old making a shock comeback to the grid.

Perez would have returned to the RP20 cockpit this weekend had he tested negative for COVID-19 after Public Health England confirmed on Wednesday that he had completed his quarantine period.

However, Perez’s latest test on Wednesday also delivered a positive result, ruling him out of the second consecutive race to be held at Silverstone.

“Sergio’s test has returned a positive result and he will continue to follow the guidance of Public Health England,” a statement from RacinG Point read. "He is physically well and recovering.

“The whole team wishes Sergio and his family well and we look forward to his return.”

Having qualified 13th on the grid at the British Grand Prix, Hulkenberg did not get the chance to complete his first race outing since the 2019 season finale in Abu Dhabi after Racing Point detected a fault with his car before it left the garage.

The 32-year-old German carried out media duties in Perez’s place for Racing Point at Silverstone on Thursday.

“I’m excited to get going again with the team at Silverstone,” Hulkenberg said.

“Last weekend, it was a real step into the unknown having been away from the team for a few years – and driving a car I’d never driven before.

“I’ve learned a lot in the last week about the RP20, and I am ready to apply my experiences to this weekend. Racing at the same track again makes things a bit easier and the team has done a great job in helping me get up to speed.

“I think we can fight for points this weekend, which is definitely my goal. I also want to wish Checo all the best in his recovery.”