Decision comes after the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
Formula One has announced its decision to cancel the Russian Grand Prix following Russia’s military invasion into Ukraine.
F1 confirmed that the race scheduled for September 25, 2022, will not be able to go ahead under the current circumstances. The race was scheduled to be held in Sochi before moving to St. Petersburg from next year onwards.
F1 released a statement, which 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.”
Four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel had earlier stated that he would not be attending the race even if it went ahead, with current Drivers’ World Champion Max Verstappen also stating that it wouldn’t be right to race in Russia.
American team Haas have also been affected by the situation. Haas’ principal sponsor is Russian company Uralkali, whose CEO is Dmitry Mazepin, father of Haas driver Nikita Mazepin. Haas team boss has stated that the situation regarding Uralkali and Mazepin continuing on with the team should be settled in the upcoming week.
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