Leclerc did not say where he might have contracted the virus but was in Dubai earlier this month.
Charles Leclerc self-isolating in Monaco after testing positive for Covid-19#F1 https://t.co/qnPVcG2Nav
— Formula 1 (@F1) January 14, 2021
“I want to let you know that I have tested positive for COVID-19 ,” the Monegasque driver said on Twitter.
“I learned that I have been in contact with a positive case and immediately went into self-isolation… A subsequent test I took has come back positive.”
Leclerc will be partnered by new team mate Carlos Sainz this season, in what will be the Monegasque’s third campaign with the Prancing Horse.
Leclerc becomes the fifth F1 driver to be tested positive. Sergio Perez, Lance Stroll and Lewis Hamilton all missed races in 2020 after testing positive, while Lando Norris is currently isolating in Dubai after his positive test.
Leclerc finished eighth overall last season as Ferrari endured their worst campaign in 40 years.