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In a significant development, former Formula 1 champion Nico Rosberg has been banned from the F1 paddock after failing to get vaccinated for COVID-19. However, Nico's spokesperson reportedly stated that the former Mercedes driver was recommended by his doctors not to take any vaccination as he already gets his antibody levels tested regularly.
He further informed that Nico has continued to comply with all the necessary hygiene and precautionary measures while he continues to fulfil his duties as a commentator.
"Nico Rosberg recovered from a Covid-19 infection and also holds a recovery certificate. He tests his antibody levels regularly and, on the recommendation of his doctor, does not currently need any vaccinations,” the spokesperson said.
Notably, Rosberg defeated Sir Lewis Hamilton to lift the 2016 title but announced his shocking retirement just five days later. He has been forced to conduct his analysis for Sky Sports remotely under strict new rules brought in for this season. Interestingly, Rosberg continued to do the coverage of the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix via a video link from his Monte Carlo home while commenting on the recent Monaco Grand Prix from just outside the paddock's entrance.
Reportedly, Nico's spokesperson declined to comment on Rosberg's possibility of getting vaccinated in future. Reports have even suggested that Sky has no plans to stop Rosberg from appearing on the broadcaster's show despite his vaccination status could prevent him from entering several countries.
However, Rosberg remains absent from the Sky Sports lineup for the upcoming weekend's Azerbaijan Grand Prix in Baku. Earlier, drivers, team members, media personnel and others just needed to show negative test results to get access to the paddock. But, F1 made amendments to regulations and made strict laws which meant vaccination was a must for everyone to be in the paddock during the race.