Russian licensed pilots, such as Nikita Mazepin from Haas, will not be allowed to compete in the British Grand Prix, it was announced on Wednesday.
David Richards, chairman of Motorsport UK, and the organisation’s board confirmed in a statement that licensed racers from Russia and Belarus would not be approved to participate in motorsport events in the UK, which potentially barred Haas Mazepin from racing. Silverstone on July 3.
The announcement comes after the FIA ruled on Tuesday that Russian and Belarusian drivers will be allowed to continue racing under a neutral flag, allowing Mazepin to stay in Formula One with Haas.
However, it is likely that Mazepin will still compete in the British Grand Prix if he manages to get a license from another country.
“The entire Motorsport community in the United Kingdom condemns the military action by Russia and Belarus in Ukraine and expresses its solidarity and support for all those affected by the ongoing conflict,” Richards said.
“We are united with the people of Ukraine and the motor sports community after the invasion and the unacceptable actions that took place. It is time for the international motorsport community to act and show support for the people of Ukraine and our colleagues in the Automobile Federation of Ukraine (FAU). “
On Tuesday, the World Motorsport Council (WMSC) confirmed that no FIA international competitions will be held in Russia and Belarus until further notice, although Formula One already announced last week that this year’s Russian Grand Prix will be canceled. .
FIA President Mohamed Ben Sulayem said the WMSC’s decision was “in line with recent recommendations from the International Olympic Committee”.
“As you know, the FIA is watching the events in Ukraine with sadness and shock, and I hope for a speedy and peaceful resolution of the current situation. We condemn the Russian invasion of Ukraine and our thoughts are with all those who are suffering as a result of the events in Ukraine, “said Ben Sulayem.
“I would like to emphasize that the FIA, together with our organizers, took an active part in this issue last week and communicated about Formula 1, Formula 2, WTCR and the International Drifting Cup, respectively.
The WMSC decision added that Russian or Belarusian national teams would not be eligible to participate in international competitions and that “Russian / Belarusian national symbols, colors, flags (uniform, equipment and car) should not be displayed.”
In response, Motorsport UK said: “No Russian / Belarusian licensed team is approved to compete in motorsport competitions in the United Kingdom, no Russian / Belarusian licensed competitor and officials are approved to participate in motor sports events in the United Kingdom. The United Kingdom and there are no Russian / Belarusian national symbols, colors, flags (of uniform, equipment and car) to be displayed at authorized Motorsport UK events. “
The statement added that Motorsport UK’s decision was taken after full consultation with the UK government and national sports governing bodies.