James Warren
FACTORY Yamaha rider Valentino Rossi will sit out this weekend’s Spanish GP in Aragon after testing positive for COVID-19.
The MotoGP legend revealed the news on his Instagram page yesterday after discovering the results of two PCR tests.
Rossi explained that he woke feeling unwell, complaining of aching bones and a slight fever, so immediately requested two PCR tests.
The first initial test came back negative but the second more substantial test came back positive.
“Unfortunately this morning I woke up and I was not feeling good, my bones were sore and I had a slight fever, so I immediately called the doctor who tested me twice,” read the statement.
“I am so disappointed that I will have to miss the race at Aragon.
“I’d like to be optimistic and confident, but I expect the second round in Aragon to be a no go for me as well.”
Rossi is now self isolating in his hotel while his team continue on with his teammate’s title charge.
According to sources, none of his team members were in contact with Rossi prior to arriving at Aragon, and all tested negative as they arrived into the circuit facility.
“We have checked with the Italian health authorities and we have been advised that any member of our team that was in contact with Valentino up until Monday is excluded from direct risk,” said a spokesman for the team.
“Nevertheless, we will be even more attentive from now on to minimise the chance for any future issues.”
Snipers Team Italian Moto3 rider Tony Arbolino also will miss this weekend’s race after coming into contact with a person who tested positive.
This is not the first time the Monster Energy Factory Yamaha squad have suffered losses at the hands of COVID-19.
Just last week, six members of the team had to be sent home after testing positive, including project leader Sumi-San and five YMC engineers.
Yamaha will not field a replacement for the 41-year-old this weekend as under MotoGP regulations, all replacement riders must be announced 10 days prior to the event.
However with next weekends Teruel GP at the same circuit looking unlikely for the veteran too, current test rider Jorge Lorenzo looks to be favourite to step into the hot seat.
