Second F1 driver ruled out of Mexico media day as illness confirmed

Valtteri Bottas has been withdrawn from Thursday's media day in Mexico City after falling ill, Cadillac has confirmed.

The Finn, who is enduring a difficult season with the American outfit, had been due to face reporters ahead of the Mexico City Grand Prix but was instead sent back to his hotel to rest.

Bottas is the second driver on the grid to miss Mexico media day, after Mercedes confirmed Kimi Antonelli had also been ruled out with a viral illness.

Cadillac has stressed that Bottas's absence is purely precautionary and does not currently put his participation in the rest of the weekend in doubt.

In a team statement, Cadillac said: "Cadillac Formula 1 Team can confirm that Valtteri Bottas will unfortunately be unable to attend today's media day in Mexico City as he is unwell."

"The team has taken the decision to allow him a day of rest, to support his recovery."

"This is a precautionary measure and does not currently affect his participation in the remainder of the race weekend. We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates if necessary."

Under FIA sporting procedures, teams must request a medical dispensation to excuse a driver from mandatory media duties, with any return to track action requiring clearance from team doctors or, if necessary, the FIA Medical Delegate.

It remains to be seen whether either Bottas or Antonelli will need that formal clearance before taking part in first practice on Friday.