Pirelli F1 team member tests positive for coronavirus

Pirelli have confirmed one of their F1 personnel, on the ground in Melbourne following the Australian Grand Prix weekend, has tested positive for the coronavirus.

Formula 1’s tyre manufacturer says the team member concerned “is now following all the relevant procedures put in place by the Australian health authorities”.

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They added: “These authorities have confirmed to Pirelli that this person has not had any contact with third parties that requires special preventive measures to be taken for other people.

“Pirelli is closely monitoring the situation in line with public health policies and company guidelines.”

It comes after a McLaren team member tested positive for the coronavirus last week, leading to the British team pulling out of the race, which then triggered the cancellation of the Grand Prix.

McLaren have revealed the team member is recovering well and no longer showing symptoms. The 14 people he came in contact with remain in quarantine in Melbourne.

It remains unclear when the 2020 F1 season will begin. F1 and the FIA hope a start is possible at the end of May – but this will be regularly reviewed.

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