The Haas System One group has terminated the contract of Russian driver Nikita Mazepin and its title sponsor, Russian chemical large Uralkali, as a consequence of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the group introduced on Saturday.
“Haas F1 Crew has elected to terminate, with rapid impact, the title partnership of Uralkali, and the motive force contract of Nikita Mazepin,” the group mentioned in a press release. “As with the remainder of the System 1 neighborhood, the group 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 mentioned that Russian and Belarusian drivers might proceed to race, however solely beneath 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 opponents and officers.
Mazepin tweeted that he was “very upset” that his contract had been terminated.
Whereas I perceive the difficulties, the ruling from FIA plus my ongoing willingness to simply accept the situations proposed to be able to proceed had been utterly ignored and no course of was adopted on this unilateral step,” he mentioned.
“To those that have tried to know, my everlasting thanks. I’ve treasured my time in F1 and genuinely hope we will 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 group for remark.
System One terminated its contract with the Russian Grand Prix promoter on Thursday, which means Russia will now not have a future race.
The 2022 System One season begins on March 20 in Bahrain.
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