#EuropeanGP Standby Replacement Rider, @garrettgerloff
— Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP (@YamahaMotoGP) November 4, 2020
“I’m honored that Yamaha has considered me for this opportunity. But I am just sorry to get this opportunity under these unfortunate circumstances for Valentino. I hope that he recovers soon, we all miss him on track!” pic.twitter.com/khRiSlEzcU
The development has compounded a miserable second half to the season for Rossi.
Prior to catching the virus and missing races, the 41-year-old had three consecutive retirements, having previously recorded four top-five finishes to start the season strongly.
"This virus is very complicated and serious," Rossi said. "I felt bad for two days, then in a few days I came back to being fully fit, at my 100 per cent.
"I self-isolated at home all the time and I followed the medical advice closely. It is a very sad and difficult situation, but that is the way it is.
"Unfortunately, [on Tuesday] I had another test and it came back positive again, like all previous ones. Luckily I still have two more chances to be back on track on Friday or Saturday.
"I am very sad because I am feeling well, and I can't wait to be back aboard my M1 and be reunited with my team.
"I really hope the next PCR test result will be negative because missing two races was already two too many."
Seven-time world champion Rossi will leave the factory team next year to join Petronas Yamaha, swapping seats with Frenchman Fabio Quartararo.