Haas to drop Russian Mazepin, claims report

Russian Formula One driver Nikita Mazepin looks set to leave the Haas racing team, with Sky Sports Germany reporting that reserve driver Pietro Fittipaldi will take his place.

Mazepin drove for the American team last season, finishing 21st in the driver's standing, but Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the sanctions that have followed globally have cast major doubt on his future.

The FIA have said Russian and Belarusian drivers would be allowed to compete in a "neutral capacity" under an "FIA flag" following an extraordinary meeting of its World Motor Sport Council (WMSC).

However on Wednesday Motorsport UK banned Russian and Belarusian license holders from racing in the UK.

By targeting the nationality of the licenses, Motorsport UK's decision will stop Russian and Belarusian drivers from racing in Britain, regardless of the flag they compete under.

"We stand united with the people of Ukraine and the motorsport community following the invasion and the unacceptable actions that have unfolded," said Motorsport UK Chair David Richards.

Sky Germany reports that the decision to remove Mazepin from the team was taken by Haas team principal Guenther Steiner.

Steiner had previously indicated that Fittipaldi would be Mazepin's replacement should he leave but a separate report from Bild claims that former Alfa Romeo driver Antonio Giovinazzi is also under consideration for the seat.