Lewis Hamilton has been declared fit to take part in the concluding round of the Formula One season in Abu Dhabi.
The seven-time world champion, 35, arrived here on Thursday following 10 days of quarantine in Bahrain after he contracted coronavirus.
George Russell, who stood in for Hamilton at last weekend’s Sakhir Grand Prix – and was cruelly robbed of victory on his debut for the world champions – returns to Williams.
👊 @LewisHamilton #AbuDhabiGP pic.twitter.com/cOhm2wd0z0 — Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team (@MercedesAMGF1) December 10, 2020
“The Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team is pleased to confirm that Lewis Hamilton will drive for the team in this weekend’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix,” the world champions said in a statement late on Thursday evening.
“Lewis tested negative for Covid-19 on Wednesday prior to completion of his self-isolation period in Bahrain. This enabled him to travel to Abu Dhabi on Thursday afternoon, and he tested negative on arrival.
“Lewis has therefore completed the protocols required by the FIA for his entry to the paddock tomorrow and will be able to take part in the race weekend.
“George Russell will return to Williams Racing for the final event of the 2020 season.”
Wasn't sure which shirt to put on today so went with the last one I wore 🤷😂 Max attack this weekend either way. Let’s sign off this mad year on a high 💪 📸 x @MSI_Images pic.twitter.com/2srQBGWmwm — George Russell (@GeorgeRussell63) December 10, 2020
Hamilton reported on Tuesday that he had endured one of the worst weeks in recent years as he battled to overcome the illness.
In his absence last weekend, Russell, 22, delivered an imperious performance.
He was on course to become only the fourth British driver to win a Formula One race this century before a Mercedes pit-stop howler – and then a late puncture – derailed his bid.
Reacting to Hamilton’s return, Russell tweeted: “Glad to see Lewis Hamilton back and fighting fit.
Back home @WilliamsRacing, checking it still fits! Did I miss much? pic.twitter.com/GF0i4uFMz9 — George Russell (@GeorgeRussell63) December 10, 2020
“Had a blast with Mercedes but now I’m buzzing to put everything I’ve learned into action with my team Williams. Gonna give it everything this weekend – just as they do for me week in, week out.”
Russell had completed his media duties wearing a Mercedes top earlier on Thursday – when the situation was still unclear – and reflected on his performance for the Silver Arrows.
“My mum was in tears afterwards and my sister, too,” said Russell.
“We live this sport together and it is so passionate, and emotions are so high. It was my first opportunity, not just for a win but to score points, and to have that taken away, not once but twice, was difficult.
Love and appreciate you all🙏🏾 pic.twitter.com/Y4qs5sYlYg — Lewis Hamilton (@LewisHamilton) December 8, 2020
“But having had time to reflect on the weekend, I have my head held high and I am proud of the job I managed to achieve.
“Last week exceeded expectations, but it is nice to have been recognised for the job I did and I will be approaching this weekend the same.
“I still have a hell of a lot to learn and it is going to be difficult. But it will be great to get another opportunity.”
Russell, a Mercedes junior driver, had said he hoped his performance in Bahrain would put pressure on team principal Toto Wolff to put him in one of his cars next season.
But, speaking on Thursday, Russell said: “That was just a throwaway remark in the heat of the moment after the race. Emotions were high. I have a contract, and I am a Williams driver for 2021.”
