The requirement for all visitors to the Formula 1 paddock to be vaccinated against Covid will be dropped for the 2023 season, the FIA has confirmed.
Determined to cobble a season together in 2020 after the pandemic first hit, the sport's bosses came up with some strict guidelines aimed at stopping the spread of the virus in the paddock. That year, no outside personnel including media were allowed on site.
That was relaxed for 2021, but mandatory testing remained in force while face coverings were to be worn at all times. This year both of those rules were also removed, but everyone who wanted to enter "high density areas" still had to show prove of vaccination or have a valid medical exemption as to why they had not had the jab.
After rumours of more relaxation to Covid guidelines, the FIA has confirmed that proof of vaccination will no longer be a requirement for those who wish to enter the paddock, the pit lane or race control. That decision was confirmed this week at the latest meeting of the World Motor Sport Council in Bologna.
On-site testing facilities will also be removed, having been continued throughout 2022. Mandatory testing was not a requirement this year, but visitors to the paddock were still encouraged to get a test just in case.
But there will be no chances to the procedure in place for people who return a positive test. Anyone who has the virus or has shown symptoms will not be allowed to enter those high density areas. The same is true for drivers who test positive – they will not be allowed to race unless they return a negative test in time, as Sebastian Vettel experienced at the start of this year.
The rule change is good news for former champion Nico Rosberg. The German is a regular pundit on Sky Sports, but has been making on-air appearances either from home or from an area outside the paddock.
His situation was made clear after the Monaco Grand Prix this year, when viewers noticed that he was regularly making appearances from inside his Monte Carlo home instead of in the thick of the action like the rest of the presenting team.
"Nico Rosberg recovered from a coronavirus infection and currently holds a recovery certificate," his spokesperson said at the time. "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."
