The FIA World Motor Sport Council decided on Wednesday in Bologna to lift the vaccination requirement for all those who want to enter the Formula 1 paddock.
This is good news, for example, for former world champion Nico Rosberg, who, as a “Sky” expert in 2022, could only be connected sporadically from outside because he was not authorized to access the paddock without a COVID-19 vaccination.
At the start of the 2020 season, which could only start in July due to the pandemic, strict protocols were introduced by the FIA to curb the spread of the corona virus. In 2021 there were already the first relaxations. For example, media representatives were allowed back into the paddock. In 2022, the mask and test requirements were even lifted. However, the obligation to vaccinate remained.
At its last meeting of the year in Bologna, the World Council now decided to relax further for the 2023 Formula 1 season. For example, there is no obligation for all those who work in high-traffic areas such as the paddock, pit lane or race control to present a vaccination certificate or a medical certificate of exemption.
In 2022, all those who needed access to the paddock – including journalists, for example – had to provide proof of vaccination. In practice, however, this was no longer strictly controlled. And now that many countries are again allowing entry without proof of vaccination, Formula 1 is also saying goodbye to this measure.
In addition, with immediate effect the FIA will no longer organize test centers at the racetracks. This had been in operation since the start of the 2020 season. As early as 2022 there was no longer an obligation to test, but all those who wanted to enter the paddock were only asked to be tested before an event on a voluntary basis.
From 2023: Every accredited person may enter the paddock. If anyone is experiencing symptoms, testing is strongly recommended. The FIA will then provide information on where a corona test can be carried out nearby. However, a positive test remains a reason for exclusion. This also applies to the racers.