Nico Rosberg banned from F1 paddock for not having Covid vaccine - despite doctors saying he doesn't need it

Nico Rosberg banned from F1 paddock for not having Covid vaccine - despite doctors saying he doesn't need it
Live stream 1069
Aden-Jay Wood

By Aden-Jay Wood


Published: 10/06/2022

- 13:31

Updated: 14/02/2023

- 11:04

Robserg, who has retired from the sport, now works as a television pundit

Former world champion Nico Rosberg has been banned from the Formula One paddock after failing to get the Covid-19 vaccine.

Rosberg, who beat Lewis Hamilton to the 2016 title before retiring just five days later, now works as a television pundit.


Rosberg X Racing owner Nico Rosberg after the Extreme E Jurassic X-Prix Final in Bovington, Dorset. Picture date: Sunday December 19, 2021.
Nico Rosberg
Bradley Collyer

Rosberg pipped Lewis Hamilton to the F1 title in 2016
Rosberg pipped Lewis Hamilton to the F1 title in 2016
MARTIN KEEP

But the 36-year-old is having to conduct his role remotely following the sport’s new-for-2022 Covid requirements.

All travelling Formula One personnel – including drivers, team members, caterers and media – must be fully-vaccinated to access the paddock.

A spokesperson for the former Mercedes driver said: “Nico Rosberg recovered from a coronavirus infection and currently holds a recovery certificate.

“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.”

Rosberg appeared as a television pundit remotely for the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix in Imola in April.

Rosberg lives in Monaco and conducted his punditry requirements on the harbourside – just metres from the entrance to the paddock – at last weekend’s race in the principality.

You may like