Supercars star David Reynolds is in a race against time to compete in Bathurst 1000 next month after his Covid-19 vaccination exemption was denied by NSW health officials.
The Kelly Grove Racing driver has been banned from the remaining three events at Sydney Motorsport Park this month and will be required to demonstrate that he is fully vaccinated before he will leave on Jan.
Despite attending the Sydney SuperNight event last weekend, NSW Health officials this week reviewed and rejected an exemption from the 2017 Bathurst winner.
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David Reynolds received an initial dose of the vaccine after his application for exemption was reviewed and denied.
Supercars says Reynolds’ participation in the event last weekend was “in accordance with temporary protocols and terms to protect himself and other attendees” while the matter was resolved.
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This means the 26-year-old will be unable to visit Sydney Motorsport Park, which will only be able to host this month’s events if spectators, drivers and officials are either fully vaccinated or have an approved dispensation .
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David Reynolds must prove that he is fully vaccinated before he can attend the Bathurst 1000.
In a statement released Thursday, Kelly Grove Racing confirmed that Reynolds was not fully vaccinated and did not meet NSW Health’s requirements.
“David has been given his first vaccination and he’s scheduled his second vaccination,” a statement said.
“If David is fully vaccinated as planned, he could be eligible to drive the Repco Bathurst 1000.”
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David Reynolds says he was shocked to miss the next three laps of Supercars.
It is unknown at this point who will replace Reynolds on the grid for races this weekend with former Supercars driver Michael Caruso among those who could take the place.
“I am shocked to miss the next three Supercars events,” said Reynolds.
“But I understand and respect the health guidelines.
“I can’t wait to get back behind the wheel in Bathurst.”
