Leandro Mercado to miss Czech WorldSBK after positive Covid-19 test

MIE Racing Honda’ Leandro Marcado will take no part in this weekend’s round six of the World Superbike Championship after testing positive for Covid-19. 

The Argentinian is said to not be showing any symptoms by the team but that he will not go into isolation. 

This adds to an already difficult start to 2021 in which Mercado has only competed in two rounds - Aragon and Assen last time out. 

Mercado is not the only rider who has been affected by Covid-19 heading into the weekend - WorldSSP300 rider Indy Offer has suffered the same outcome. 

Mercado said: "I am very frustrated about this situation because I was so eager to race and to continue the work we are doing with the team. 

"But I will have to watch the races on television again, which isn’t nice of course. However, the important thing is that I'm fine and don't have any symptoms, so I hope to be back as soon as possible. 

"I would like to thank the whole team, as they are supporting me in every way, and I look forward to being back with them very soon because I am highly motivated to continue to improve with my Honda."

Mercado will be replaced by Italian rider Alessandro Delbianco who previously raced for Honda in 2019. 

Mercado joins fellow riders Eugene Laverty (internal team restructuring) and Lucas Mahias (injury) reasons in being absent from this weekend, while Jonas Folger will find out today whether he’s been declared fit to race following his injuries suffered in Assen.