Nikita Mazepin: Former Haas F1 driver brands sanctions on Russian athletes 'cancel culture against my country'

Former Haas driver Nikita Mazepin has branded sanctions on Russian sportsmen and women as «cancel culture against my country». Mazepin was dismissed by Haas following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine just days before his father, Dmitry, was sanctioned by the EU for being a close ally to Russian president Vladimir Putin. Ad/> Haas also cut title sponsorship ties with Russian fertiliser company Uralkali, who are owned by Dmitry.

Australian Grand PrixVettel going 'back to school' as he prepares for F1 comeback after Covid recoveryA DAY AGO The EU sanctions list describes Nikita as a «person associated with a leading businessperson involved in economic sectors providing a substantial source of revenue to the government of the Russian Federation». But the former Haas driver believes targeting Russian athletes is wrong and he says he will challenge the sanctions. “I don't agree with being in the sanctions," Mazepin told the BBC.

«I've said previously that I intend to fight it. Perhaps now is not the right time because if you look at the whole situation that's happening against athletes in the general case, it's cancel culture against my country.» Vettel going 'back to school' as he prepares for F1 comeback after Covid recovery Wolff brands Mercedes start 'totally unacceptable' as Russell urges 'rethink' on car Mazepin has not publicly condemned Russia’s invasion of Ukraine but admits it is tough to witness. «It's very painful to watch that on many levels,” he said.