Alabama football head coach Nick Saban has tested positive for the coronavirus, according to a statement from the university on Wednesday.
The report stated that Saban left the Crimson Tide team facility immediately after being told about his positive COVID-19 test.
The 68-year-old was informed of the positive test by the training staff on Wednesday.
It is understood that athletic director Greg Byrne has also tested positive for COVID-19.
University of Alabama said in a release today: “Early this afternoon, we received notification that Coach Saban and Greg Byrne tested positive for COVID-19.
“Both immediately left the facility and went to their homes to self-isolate after receiving that information. At this point in time, the positive tests are limited to those two individuals.
“All individuals who are considered high risk contacts have been notified and will follow quarantine guidelines. We will follow the SEC’s Return to Activity and Medical Guidance Task Force Protocol for testing asymptomatic positives.”
Statement from Nick Saban: “I found out earlier this afternoon that I had tested positive for COVID-19. I immediately left work and isolated at home. At this time, I do not have any symptoms relative to COVID, and I have taken another PCR test to confirm my diagnosis.
“I informed our team of my positive test at 2 p.m. today on a Zoom call and let them know offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian will oversee preparations at the complex while I work from home.”
Alabama is 3-0 on the season and ranks No. 2 in the country.
The Crimson Tide are slated to play No. 3 Georgia in a key Southeastern Conference clash on Saturday night.
Offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Steve Sarkisian will lead the team during the preparing for battle with the Bulldogs, who will make their first trip to Tuscaloosa since 2007.
The news of Saban’s positive test comes on the heels of the Florida and LSU clash in Gainesville being postponed earlier today due to positive tests in the Gators’ campus.
Another SEC matchup, Vanderbilt versus Missouri, had been postponed earlier this week.
