David Reynolds will not take part in the next three Supercars events at Sydney Motorsport Park after New South Wales authorities ruled he isn’t exempt from being vaccinated against COVID-19.
The 36-year-old, who finished on the podium earlier this year at Sandown, says he is “shattered” by the news.
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“In accordance with NSW Health Orders, in order to attend and compete at last weekend’s Bunnings Trade Sydney SuperNight and the next three rounds of the Championship at Sydney Motorsport Park, all Supercars attendees and drivers must either be fully vaccinated with accepted COVID-19 vaccines or be exempt from vaccination,” the series said in a statement.
“In the last week, NSW health authorities, working closely with Supercars, Kelly Grove Racing and David Reynolds have carefully considered a vaccination exemption presented by David and have concluded that David is not exempt from receiving the vaccine.”
The decision has left Reynolds with no choice but to get vaccinated, ahead of the Bathurst 1000 in December.
“With NSW health authorities having reached this conclusion, David has had his first vaccine shot administered and has scheduled his second vaccine shot,” Supercars said.
“While waiting for his second vaccine shot, however, David is not able to compete at the three upcoming Sydney Motorsport Park rounds of the 2021 Supercars Championship.
“Once fully vaccinated, as scheduled, David could be eligible to drive in the Repco Bathurst 1000.”
Reynolds, who won the Bathurst 1000 in 2017, says he’s devastated to be sidelined for the remaining sprint rounds.
“I’m shattered to be missing the next three Supercars events, but I understand and respect the health guidelines,” he said.
“I want to thank Kelly Grove Racing and all of our fans and sponsors for their support, and I can’t wait to get back behind the wheel at Bathurst.”
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