Nikita Mazepin has disputed reviews that he would refuse to race below impartial standing
Former Method 1 driver Nikita Mazepin has clarified that he can be keen to compete within the sport once more below impartial standing, rejecting reviews that he would solely ponder a comeback if he might use the Russian flag.
Mazepin was sacked by American F1 staff Haas on the eve of the brand new season again in March, following the outbreak of the battle in Ukraine.
Haas made the choice regardless of motor sport governing physique the FIA permitting Russian and Belarusian drivers to proceed to compete as neutrals, with none of their respective nationwide symbols.
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Exiled Russian driver eyeing F1 return
Stories in current days have claimed that Mazepin would solely contemplate returning to F1 if the FIA modified its stance.
However the 23-year-old took to social media on Wednesday to make clear his place.
“I simply wished to right the file as a number of information shops have reported me as saying I refuse to compete below a impartial flag,” wrote Mazepin.
“This isn’t the case. What I stated was that I’m not contemplating altering my citizenship as a way to compete.
“I used to be and stay keen to compete below impartial standing and, in reality, did so throughout final yr’s F1 season with none points.”
Mazepin was crucial of the best way Haas dealt with the termination of his contract, which adopted one season of racing with the staff in F1.
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The motive force has additionally accused the West of making an attempt to “cancel” Russia – one thing which he says is behind the wave of sporting sanctions imposed on Russian athletes.
In addition to dismissing Mazepin, Haas additionally terminated its title sponsorship cope with Russian fertilizer large Uralkali, the place the motive force’s father, Dmitry, was previously a controlling stakeholder.
Each Uralkali and Nikita Mazepin have since revealed that they’re pursuing authorized motion in opposition to Haas to recoup cash they’re allegedly owed by the racing staff.
Since leaving F1, Mazepin has featured within the Silk Means Rally which was held in Russia again in July.
