F1 confirms first two positive virus tests

Formula One has confirmed its first two positive Covid-19 results ahead of tomorrow’s Hungarian Grand Prix.

It is understood that the individuals were involved in setting up this week’s race and are not employed by the 10 teams.

They have since been removed from the sport’s bubble, with no impact on the third round of the championship at the Hungaroring expected.

“The FIA and F1 can confirm that between July 10 and July 16, 4,997 tests for Covid-19 have been performed on drivers, teams and personnel and of these, two people have tested positive,” read a statement issued by the sport’s governing body.

“The individuals were not present in Austria, with the affected people removed from operations and isolated. Tracing of close contacts has been completed and isolated. No specific details as to teams or individuals will be provided by the FIA or F1 and results will be made public every seven days.”

The sport is operating under strict rules to ensure the races can go ahead, with personnel being tested for the virus every four days.

The Hungarian government last week issued strict lockdown measures in a bid to prevent the spread of the disease.

All UK and non-EU members of the sport’s 2,000-strong travelling circus are required to stay in hotels when not at the track, which is 12 miles from the centre of Budapest.

Use of public transport and taxis have been banned. Failure to adhere to the rules could result in a £13,000 fine or imprisonment. Seven of the 10 teams are based in the UK.