Coronavirus in the F1 paddock? Multiple teams are being testing in Melbourne

F1 News

11 March 2020 at 08:05

With less than a few days before the action gets underway in Melbourne, the Australia Grand Prix is set to run as planned. However, the coronavirus still seems to threaten the first race of the 2020 F1 season. No risk is being taken in the paddock. 

It was announced on Tuesday that a guest from a nearby hotel to the circuit has tested positive for the coronavirus. When a number of F1 team members arrived at the circuit with symptoms of flu, the teams ensure the correct measures were taken. 

Team members back to the hotel

Motorsport.com knows that the Albert Park track has a special isolation unit for any instances that occur. They report that a team member from McLaren and two from Haas have been sent to that centre for a test. The team members have been sent back to their hotel for isolation while they wait for the test results. 

A number of sporting events, including the Chinese Grand Prix, have been suspended worldwide while the outbreak goes on. The coronavirus back in the UK has started to cause trouble to the Premier League season with Arsenal's match v Manchester City being postponed. The Cheltenham Festival, which is expected to attract over 250,000 fans, is still going ahead. 

However, it seems as if more and more measures are being taken which alter sporting occasions. Formula 1's visit to Bahrain will be behind closed doors. It is unclear what will happen to the Australian Grand Prix should those tested be found positive for the virus.