A mysterious virus affects the F1 paddock in Baku.

A mysterious virus affects the F1 paddock in Baku.

      19 September 2025 - 09:52 Rumors about a virus outbreak have started to circulate in Baku, with several individuals from the Formula 1 community reportedly falling ill. George Russell was already absent on Thursday, with Mercedes confirming he was still at his hotel. "Unfortunately, George won’t be at the track today as he’s feeling unwell and is resting in preparation for tomorrow’s track activities," the team stated. This situation has sparked speculation that an unknown illness is spreading in the paddock, affecting guests at a hotel that is accommodating numerous F1 personnel. Valtteri Bottas is thought to be on standby in case Russell is unable to compete in the Azerbaijan GP weekend.

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A mysterious virus affects the F1 paddock in Baku.

Formula 1 | Reports of a virus outbreak are starting to circulate in Baku, with several individuals from the Formula 1 community reportedly experiencing illness. George (…)