Formula 1 axes “impossible” Russian Grand Prix

Formula 1 deemed the Russian Grand Prix “impossible to hold” on Friday after the Russian invasion of Ukraine. It was not immediately clear if a replacement race will be held.

A statement from Formula 1 read, “The FIA Formula 1 World Championship visits countries all over the world with a positive vision to unite people, bringing nations together.”

“We are watching the developments in Ukraine with sadness and shock and hope for a swift and peaceful resolution to the present situation.”

“On Thursday evening Formula 1, the FIA, and the teams discussed the position of our sport, and the conclusion is, including the view of all relevant stakeholders, that it is impossible to hold the Russian Grand Prix in the current circumstances.”

Formula 1 drivers appeared largely supportive of the decision during a press conference following pre-season testing.

Spanish driver Carlos Sainz stated, “personally, I would have found it very difficult to catch a plane and land in a country that is at war.” His remarks echoed those made by reigning world champion Max Verstappen a day prior, who stated, “I think when a country is at war it’s not correct to race there.”

The effects of the invasion were also felt by the U.S.-owned Haas F1 Team, whose title sponsor is Uralkali. The team’s cars had adorned a livery that resembled the Russian flag for much of the 2021 season. On Friday, that livery had disappeared from the team’s cars during pre-season testing.

Haas is also home to the grid’s only Russian driver Nikita Mazepin. Mazepin addressed the situation on Twitter, stating, “it’s a difficult time and I am not in control over a lot of what is being said and done. I’m choosing to focus on what I CAN control by working hard and doing my best for my Haas F1 Team.”

Formula 1 joined a growing number of international sports organizations and federations that had decided to move their events outside of Russia for the 2022 season.

UEFA confirmed it would relocate its Champions League final from St. Petersburg to Paris, while the International Olympic Committee (IOC) urged all international sports federations to relocate or cancel their sports events currently planned in Russia or Belarus.