Nikita Mazepin (Credits: F1)
The decision comes from the National Motorsport authority of the UK following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine
Haas F1 driver Nikita Mazepin won’t be able to race in the British Grand Prix. There are speculations that Mazepin could be totally dropped from the team but this decision means even if he remains a part of Haas, the F1 team will have to settle with a replacement driver in the British GP in July this year.
Earlier the F1 governing body FIA had announced that Russian drivers can compete in events but Russian teams will be banned till further notice. Motorsport UK have clearly announced that they will not recognise licences of drivers from the Russian federation.
Motorsport UK’s chairperson David Richards has given us more clarity regarding the decision. Richards said, “It is our duty to use whatever influence and leverage we have to bring this wholly unjustified invasion of Ukraine to a halt. We would encourage the motorsport community and our colleagues around the world to fully embrace the recommendations of the International Olympic Commitee and do whatever we can to end this war.” He further added, “Motorsport UK stands united with Leonid Kostyuchenko, president of the Automobile Federation of Ukraine, the Ukrainian motorsport community and the Ukrainian people and calls for the violence to end with a peaceful resolution.”
There are strong speculations that Haas F1 team are looking for a replacement driver. The US-based team have already dropped the branding of their Russian sponsor, Uralkali which is owned by Nikita Mazepin’s father, Dmitry Mazepin. Speaking on the issue, Haas team boss Guenther Steiner has admitted that there will be discussions regarding Mazepin’s future in the team. “Governments are involved and I have no power over them and we need to see how the situation develops in Ukraine”, said Steiner. He further added, “Should Mazepin not drive for one or the other reason, the first call would go to Pietro. He knows the team. He knows the car. There is nobody better than Pietro at the moment.”
If Haas eventually decides to drop Mazepin, the seat could go to Pietro Fittipaldi or Antonio Giovinazzi. Giovinazzi finished in 18th spot earning 3 points in the 2021 F1 Drivers’ Championship. The Italian made his debut in F1 at the 2017 Australian Grand Prix.
He last raced at the 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The 28-year old is currently racing in Formula E with Dragon/Penske Autosport but has an exit clause in his contract that allows him to return to Formula 1 if a seat becomes available. Giovinazzi has completed a total of 62 races in his F1 career scoring 21 points.
It will be interesting to see if Mazepin is dropped eventually and if he is, who gets to replace him – Giovinazzi or Fittipaldi.
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