Alpha Gasa’s Pierre Gasly said on Sunday that he had tested positive for COVID-19, meaning six of Formula One’s 20 race drivers have now contracted the virus.
The 24-year-old Frenchman, who recently posted pictures on Instagram of training in Dubai, made the announcement on Twitter.
“I wanted to let you know that I tested positive for COVID-19. I’ve told everyone I’ve been in contact with these last few days, ”he said on Twitter.
“I am currently alone and following the protocol submitted by the local health authorities. I feel fine, and will continue to follow my training plan from home while I’m alone. ”
– PIERRE GASLY 🇫🇷 (@PierreGASLY) January 31, 2021
Sergio Perez of Mexico, Lance Stroll of Canada, world champion Lewis Hamilton, Lando Norris of McLaren and Charles Leclerc of Ferrari have all been positive since the outbreak began.
Norris and Leclerc confirmed positive after spending time in Dubai after the season.
The virus also affects Mercedes team leader Toto Wolff, Williams principal Simon Roberts and Aston team owner Martin Lawrence Stroll as well as Pirelli medalist Mario Isola.
The season starts in Bahrain on March 28th.
Last year’s competition was hit by the pandemic, with the prospective Australian opener put off after a test by a member of the McLaren team.
The last sport began in July with teams working in ‘bubbles’ and under a strict safety protocol with the plague closed to all but essential employees.