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After a hectic year for Formula 1 featuring 17 races in just over five months, most of the paddock felt in need of a holiday. But while the world remains in the grip of a pandemic and as travel restrictions grow again, it's a prospect most could only dream of during the winter months.
Nevertheless, a number of drivers have managed to get away, incorporating some time off into their off-season preparations. Charles Leclerc, Lando Norris and Pierre Gasly are just three drivers to have done so, each recently spending some time in Dubai. Travel from the UK is permitted on work grounds, meaning a training camp - which Norris was travelling for - is technically an acceptable reason for leaving the country.
In the case of Norris, he had to spend a bit more time in Dubai than planned. A positive test for COVID-19 in early January forced him to self-isolate for two weeks in a hotel, having reported a loss of taste and smell. He has since returned to the UK. (Leclerc also tested positive following his trip upon returning home to Monaco.)
Amid the majority of messages wishing Norris a speedy recovery, there was some criticism. "You should have known the risks when you jetted off to Dubai," said one Twitter user. A more scathing response read: "This should hopefully teach you a lesson to not go on holiday during a pandemic as England is suffering."
