Nico Rosberg's broadcasting and punditry duties will have to be carried out from outside the Formula 1 paddock for the time being, as it's emerged that the 2016 Formula 1 World Champion isn't currently vaccinated against COVID-19. All F1 personnel and those with access to the paddock are required to be fully vaccinated. Rumours emerged in the lead-up to the Azerbaijan Grand Prix that Rosberg had been denied access to the paddock in Monaco, with the German instead carrying out his duties from the harbour area in Monte Carlo.
Rosberg's team confirm lack of vaccination
A statement from Rosberg's press officer confirmed that the 36-year-old has previously recovered from a bout with the coronavirus and, following medical recommendations, opted against any vaccinations. "Nico Rosberg recovered from a coronavirus infection and currently holds a recovery certificate," a spokesperson told RacingNews365.com. "He has his antibody levels tested regularly and, on the recommendation of his doctor, does not currently require any vaccinations. "In addition, he continues to comply with all necessary hygiene and precautionary measures."
Rosberg follows Van Der Merwe's stance
Rosberg isn't the first high-profile F1 paddock insider to have his access restricted due to his decision. Over the winter, former Medical Car driver Alan Van Der Merwe, one of the heroes of the hour during Romain Grosjean's dramatic crash in Bahrain in 2020, was replaced by Bruno Correia, with Van Der Merwe opting against getting the vaccinations F1 required. "I'm aware that my movements will be limited in the near future due to my personal choices," Van Der Merwe explained on Twitter at the time. "That should show that I have not taken my decision lightly. "For the avoidance of doubt: if you want to get vaccinated, do it. I'm pro-vaccine for those that want and can have them."
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