Former Mercedes driver Nico Rosberg has been banned from the Formula One paddock after his failure to get the Covid-19 vaccine.
The 36-year-old has been working for Sky Sports F1 as a pundit since he retired from racing in 2016. Rosberg has been forced to do his job away from the paddock after the sport announced new Covid requirements for the 2022 season.
Rosberg currently lives in Monaco and during the Monegasque Grand Prix last weekend, he had to do his punditry for Sky Sport F1 next to the harbour, meters from the paddock entrance.
According to the new Covid regulations, all travelling Formula One personnel, including drivers, team members, caterers and media must all be fully vaccinated in order to be allowed access into the paddock.
A spokesperson for the 2016 world champion explained to the PA news agency about his failure to get vaccinated: “Nico Rosberg recovered from a coronavirus infection and currently holds a recovery certificate.”
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“He has his antibody levels tested regularly and, on the recommendation of his doctor, does not currently need any vaccinations.”
“In addition, he continues to comply with all necessary hygiene and precautionary measures. He continues to fulfil his duties as a commentator for Sky.”
During the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix in Imola in April, Rosberg again work as a pundit for Sky Sports F1 remotely.
Rosberg won the 2016 championship after beating team mate Lewis Hamilton by just five points.
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During the 2016 season, the long term friendship between Rosberg and Hamilton began to crack, tension started to rise as the season went on.
Their friendship reached the point of no return after numerous incidents between the two drivers as they battled it out to be crowned champion.
Rosberg won the title and announced his retirement from racing just five days later.
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“I have climbed my mountain, I am on the peak, so this feels right.” Rosberg said
He added: “For 25 years in racing, it has been my dream, my 'one thing', to become Formula 1 world champion.”
“Through the hard work, the pain, the sacrifices, this has been my target. And now I've made it.”
The next race will be held in Baku, Azerbaijan this weekend as reigning world champion Max Verstappen looks to extend his lead at the top of the standings.
Topics: Formula 1, Sky Sports
Marcus Chan