Sergio Perez: Racing Point driver out of British Grand Prix after testing positive for coronavirus

The team’s revised driver line-up will be announced in due course

Sergio Perez is out of the British Grand Prix after testing positive for coronavirus.

It has been confirmed that the Mexican, who drives for the Silverstone-based Racing Point team, is now in quarantine.

Perez, who earlier returned an inconclusive test result, becomes the first Formula One driver to test positive for the virus.

A statement from Formula One read: “With assistance of the local organiser of the British Grand Prix, local health authorities and the FIA Covid-19 delegate, a full track and trace initiative has been undertaken and all close contacts have been quarantined.

“The procedures set out by the FIA and Formula 1 have provided for swift containment of an incident that will have no wider impact on this weekend’s event.”

Racing Point’s revised driver line-up will be announced in due course but they have confirmed they do intend to still race with two cars.

The vacant seat is likely to be filled by either Mercedes reserve driver, Esteban Gutierrez, or former Force India and Renault driver Nico Hulkengberg.

“Sergio is physically well and in good spirits, but he will continue to self-isolate under the guidelines of the relevant public health authorities, with safety the ultimate priority for the team and the sport,” the team said.

“The entire team wishes Sergio well and looks forward to welcoming him back into the cockpit of the RP20 soon.

“Our intention is to race two cars on Sunday. We will communicate the next steps for our British Grand Prix weekend in due course.”

It's understood that Perez will also miss the F1 70th Anniversary Grand Prix at Silverstone next weekend as he remains in isolation, with his replacement set to be drafted in for at least two races this season.