After missing the Sakhir Grand Prix following a positive COVID-19 test, Lewis Hamilton is looking to make his return to the track for Formula One’s season finale in the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
The seven-time world champion, who remains in isolation in his hotel in Bahrain until Thursday, will need to test negative in order to compete. If he is unable to race, Williams’ driver George Russell would get another chance to race in his place.
Hamilton posted his first public message on Twitter since testing positive for the coronavirus, sharing his appreciation for the support he’s received in what has been a tough stretch for him.
Love and appreciate you all pic.twitter.com/Y4qs5sYlYg
— Lewis Hamilton (@LewisHamilton) December 8, 2020
“I know I’ve not been in touch this past week but it’s definitely been one of the hardest weeks that I’ve had for some time. Just been focusing on recovering and trying to get back in shape so I can get back in the car and race the final race in Abu Dhabi,” Hamilton said.
“I woke up today feeling great and got my first workout in so I just wanted to send you guys a message of positivity and let you know I’m OK, and thank every single one of you for sending the amazing messages and videos. I really appreciate it.”
Formula One was granted an exception from Abu Dhabi’s COVID-19 restrictions, which requires a 14-day quarantine for travellers by remaining in a ‘biosphere’ lockdown around the track and hotels. This could complicate Hamilton’s desire to participate in the race unless he produces a negative test and receives a special exemption from the government.