Adam Peaty has provided an Olympic update after testing positive for COVID-19.
Shortly after taking the silver the men’s 100-metre breaststroke, the English star took a test for the virus after suffering from a sore throat in the lead up to Sunday’s final.
Therefore, there have been doubts about whether he would be able to compete in the men’s and mixed 4×100 metre relays. The 29-year-old’s ability on the breaststroke leg of the race would be crucial for Team GB.
However, Peaty has provided some clarity on his availability for the race, by posting on Instagram on Wednesday evening. The story post includes a picture of him in the pool, with the caption: “Back in the water with the French public today (2 days of bed rest).”
Unlike Tokyo 2020, there are no specific coronavirus restrictions in place, but a Team GB statement read: “All usual precautions (were) being taken to keep the wider delegation healthy.”
The mixed medley heats take place on Friday, with the final on Saturday. The men’s preliminaries also take place on Saturday, but the showpiece is on Sunday. If Team GB would like to ensure Peaty is fully fit and firing, then they could choose to only select him for the finals.
After his COVID-19 diagnosis, Peaty said: “I am always an advocate for complete transparency in sport as there are so many gears to make it all work.
“As per the British Olympic Association press release, I tested positive for COVID this morning after feeling unwell yesterday. I’ll now be focusing on a fast, full recovery to give my best in the team relays later in the week.”
Peaty’s partner Holly Ramsay posted a selfie of the pair to her Instagram shortly after, saying: “Got to see my *heart emoji* today.” She is the daughter of celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay.
