Russian driver Nikita Mazepin during F1 testing on February 23 in Barcelona, Spain. (Mark Thompson/Getty Images)
The Haas Formula One team has terminated The contract of Russian rider Nikita Mazepin and his title sponsor, Russian chemical giant Uralkali, in connection with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, was announced by the team on Saturday.
“The Haas F1 team has taken the decision to immediately terminate the title partnership with Uralkali and the contract of pilot Nikita Mazepin,” the team said in a statement. “Like the rest of the F1 community, the team is shocked and saddened by the invasion of Ukraine and wishes for a speedy and peaceful end to the conflict.”
The new driver is expected to be named next week.
On Tuesday, the FIA said Russian and Belarusian drivers could continue to race, but only under a neutral “FIA flag” and without the use of any Russian/Belarusian national symbols, colors or flags on their uniforms, equipment and car “until further notice.” This ruling also applies to individual competitors and officials.
Mazepin tweeted that he was “very disappointed” with the termination of his contract.
While I understand the difficulties, the FIA’s decision, plus my continued willingness to accept the terms offered to proceed, were completely ignored and no process was followed in this unilateral move,” he said.
“To those who tried to understand, my eternal gratitude. I treasured my time in Formula 1 and sincerely hope that we can be together again in better times. I will have something to say in the coming days.”
CNN has reached out to the Haas team for comment.
Formula 1 terminated the contract with the promoter of the Russian Grand Prix on Thursday, meaning Russia will have no more future races.
The 2022 Formula 1 season starts on March 20 in Bahrain.
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