George Russell’s performance coach is self-isolating after displaying mild respiratory symptoms ahead of this weekend’s Emilia Romagna Grand Prix.
Williams stressed on Thursday evening that Russell had not been in contact with Aleix Casanovas since Sunday’s Portuguese Grand Prix.
Russell and Casanovas both returned a negative Covid-19 test on Wednesday, which was taken on Tuesday, and will be tested once more on Friday in line with FIA guidelines.
“After displaying mild respiratory symptoms this morning Williams can confirm that George Russell’s performance coach is self-isolating today in line with FIA guidelines,” read a team statement.
“A Covid-19 test collected yesterday was negative, however he will undergo a further precautionary test again tomorrow outside the paddock before taking further directions from the FIA.
“He has not been in contact with George since race day in Portugal.
“George undertook his scheduled Covid-19 test on Tuesday in order to enter Italy today – which was also confirmed as negative.
“He will be retested at the track on Friday as part of the team’s regular testing schedule.”
Williams officially has Jack Aitken as its reserve driver.
Formula 2 racer Aitken, previously part of Renault’s stable, tested the FW43 in free practice in Austria in July.
I hope that Russell is okay and doesn’t miss any races, but Sunday contact is well within the known incubation period. In fact the whole of the Portimao race weekend is within it, which must be a concern as regards all the team members.