Former F1 Driver Calls Sanctions Against Russia ‘Cancel Culture’

Former Formula One driver Nikita Mazepin has described the sanctions being imposed against Russia for its invasion of Ukraine as 'cancel culture'.

Mazepin is among the many Russians who have been targeted by the sanctions, with both the EU and the UK naming the F1 driver and his oligarch father, Dmitry Mazepin, in their lists.

The EU described Dmitry as 'a member of the closest circle of Vladimir Putin', while Mazepin was said to be a "person associated with a leading businessperson [his father] involved in economic sectors providing a substantial source of revenue to the government of the Russian Federation."

The driver lost his contract with Haas as a result of the invasion, and in a recent interview with BBC Hardtalk, he made it clear he did not agree with being sanctioned.

"I've said previously that I intend to fight it," Mazepin said, though he admitted now perhaps might not be 'the right time' when considering the bigger picture of the 'situation that's happening against [Russian] athletes'.

"It's cancel culture against my country", the driver said.

Mazepin told the BBC he had seen some of the images coming out of Ukraine in the wake of the war and said it is 'painful to watch... on many levels'. However, the 23-year-old stressed that while he is someone who 'wants to live in a very peaceful world', he saw 'tremendous risks' in commenting on the matter because he would 'never satisfy everyone'.

"I will keep myself publicly, publicly quiet," he added.

Mazepin released a statement addressed to his 'fans and followers' after having his contract with Haas come to an end earlier this year, saying at the time he was 'very disappointed' with the news.

He continued: "While I understand the difficulties, the ruling from FIA plus my ongoing willingness to accept the conditions proposed in order to continue were completely ignored and no process was followed in this unilateral step.

"To those who have tried to understand, my eternal thanks. I have treasured my time in F1 and genuinely hope we can all be together again in better times," he wrote.

FIA emergency measures issued in the wake of the invasion require any Russian drivers to agree to a 10 point commitment, which includes racing under a neutral flag and not voicing any support for the military action in Ukraine.

In announcing the termination of Mazepin's contract, Haas said it was 'shocked and saddened by the invasion of Ukraine' and wished for a swift end to the conflict.

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