Why Formula 1 Drivers Face the Highest Risks of Coronavirus Infection

It is often debated whether F1 drivers are the most affected by the coronavirus among sportspeople. While during race seasons, only a few drivers like Sergio Perez and Lewis Hamilton were affected by the virus during their weeks off, the situation changes drastically when the racing season ends and everyone goes on vacation.

General Sportspeople Infection Rates

The general public, particularly those with lower incomes, are often the most significantly affected by the coronavirus. However, this article focuses specifically on sportspeople, and among them, Formula 1 drivers stand out for their high-risk profile.

The Comparative Analysis: Least Affected Sportspeople

Players like those in tennis, golf, and other individual sports are among the least affected. They can travel alone or with a small support team, typically limited to a physiotherapist, a coach, and perhaps one or two others. Once these individuals test negative and enter a bio-bubble, the risk of infection is relatively low. The tournament often concludes in a single city or country, which provides a defined and contained environment.

The High-Risk Scenario: Team Sports

Team sports such as football and cricket face higher risks due to the larger number of individuals involved. A bubble must accommodate 15 to 20 players, plus support staff including physios, trainers, and coaches. Furthermore, contact with the opposing team increases the risk of infection. Frequent testing becomes a necessity to manage this higher risk.

The Uniqueness of F1: A Continual Infection Risk

Formula 1 drivers, on the other hand, must constantly interact with their trackside team, which includes 15 to 20 mechanics and other personnel like engineers, strategists, and other staff. Although some interactions are virtual, the F1 paddock itself comprises around 2,000 people, including media personnel. To ensure safety, this large bubble requires drivers to undergo at least two tests per week or a test every three days. Additionally, each race is typically held in a different country, forcing drivers and F1 personnel to adhere to local quarantine and testing protocols.

These stringent measures highlight the significant risk F1 drivers face, making them one of the sportspeople most affected by the coronavirus. While individual sports and team sports each present their unique challenges, the constant travel and interaction required of F1 drivers make them a very high-risk group.

Conclusion

While not the most significantly affected in the general population, F1 drivers face the highest risks among sportspeople due to their extensive and often international travel, interactions with large teams, and rigorous testing protocols. For fans and fans of the sport, understanding these risks can help in appreciating the challenges these high-profile athletes must face daily.