The Haas Components One staff has terminated the contract of Russian driver Nikita Mazepin and its title sponsor, Russian chemical big Uralkali, because of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the staff introduced on Saturday.
“Haas F1 Group has elected to terminate, with instant impact, the title partnership of Uralkali, and the motive force contract of Nikita Mazepin,” the staff stated in a press release. “As with the remainder of the Components 1 group, the staff is shocked and saddened by the invasion of Ukraine and needs for a swift and peaceable finish to the battle.”
A alternative driver is anticipated to be named subsequent week.
On Tuesday, the FIA stated that Russian and Belarusian drivers may proceed to race, however solely below a impartial “FIA flag” and with out displaying any Russian/Belarusian nationwide symbols, colours or flags on their uniform, tools and automotive “till additional discover.” This ruling additionally extends to particular person rivals and officers.
Mazepin tweeted that he was “very disillusioned” that his contract had been terminated.
Whereas I perceive the difficulties, the ruling from FIA plus my ongoing willingness to just accept the circumstances proposed as a way to proceed had been utterly ignored and no course of was adopted on this unilateral step,” he stated.
“To those that have tried to know, my everlasting thanks. I’ve treasured my time in F1 and genuinely hope we are able to all be collectively once more in higher instances. I’ll have extra to say within the coming days.”
CNN has reached out to the Haas staff for remark.
Components One terminated its contract with the Russian Grand Prix promoter on Thursday, which means Russia will now not have a future race.
The 2022 Components One season begins on March 20 in Bahrain.
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