Mercedes says it will do “everything we can” in order for Lewis Hamilton to return at this weekend’s season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Hamilton was forced to sit out last weekend’s race on the outer Bahrain circuit after testing positive for COVID-19, with Williams driver George Russell deputising for the seven-time world champion.
In accordance with coronavirus protocols, the Briton has been self isolating since his diagnosis, with the mandatory 10-day period due to end on Thursday.
Earlier this week, Hamilton provided an update on his health, revealing he was “feeling great” and was now back training.
There is still a doubt over whether Hamilton will be permitted to race, which has led to Russell being scheduled to appear in Thursday’s drivers’ press conference for Mercedes.
Mercedes boss Toto Wolff said while Hamilton’s condition is “improving”, there is no guarantee he will be declared fit to race in Abu Dhabi.
“There are still some question marks over who will be in the car this weekend in Abu Dhabi,” Wolff said in his Abu Dhabi Grand Prix preview.
“Lewis’s condition is improving, but we won’t know until closer to the time if he will be driving.
“We’ll do everything we can to get him in the car and we know he’s determined to be back as soon as possible.
“But his health is our main priority, so we will see what the situation is and then make the call.”
In order to enter the United Arab Emirates, Hamilton must deliver four negative tests and receive permission from government officials overseeing entry requirements for the race.
Hamilton’s hopes to return have been made harder by the Formula 1 paddock being put in a lockdown on Yas Island surrounding the circuit.
A decision on whether Hamilton will be in the car this weekend could be made as late as qualifying, with Nico Hulkenberg subbing for Racing Point’s Lance Stroll at the Eifel Grand Prix without taking part in any practice sessions.
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