Max Verstappen will not attend Thursday’s scheduled media activities ahead of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix as he recovers from a stomach illness.
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The two-time world champion posted on social media that he has been unwell “for a few days” but expects to be fit for tomorrow’s opening day of practice at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit.
“I’m feeling fine again after not being fit for a few days because of a stomach bug,” Verstappen said. “Because of that, I had to postpone my flight by a day, so I won’t be on track until Friday.”
Red Bull confirmed the FIA granted Verstappen permission to miss Thursday’s media day due to his illness. Drivers have received similar exemptions in the past for medical reasons, including McLaren’s Lando Norris at some races last year.
Under current regulations, drivers are normally required to take part in media sessions the day before practice begins for a grand prix.
Verstappen leads the early championship standings after winning the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix from pole position, finishing ahead of Red Bull team mate Sergio Perez.
Since his F1 debut at the 2015 Australian Grand Prix Verstappen has never missed a grand prix, starting 163 races to date. Red Bull’s reserve drivers this season are Super Formula racer Liam Lawson and former F1 race winner Daniel Ricciardo.
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