Russian Nikita Mazepin reveals support from George Russell after Haas dismissal

Sacked Formula One driver Nikita Mazepin revealed he received a message of support from Britain’s George Russell following his dismissal by Haas.

The Russian driver, speaking for the first time since he was fired, said he discovered his contract was terminated through a press release, and did not rule out taking legal action against the American-owned team.

Mazepin’s father, oligarch Dmitry Mazepin, is a part-owner of Haas’ former title sponsor, Uralkali – a contract which was also torn up – and an associate of Russian president Vladimir Putin.

Uralkali published a statement on Wednesday demanding “immediate reimbursement” of money already transferred to Haas for the forthcoming season.

The FIA has allowed Russian drivers to continue under a neutral flag following the country’s invasion of Ukraine.

But the sporting federation also said all drivers must agree to its principles of peace and neutrality and “acknowledge the strong commitment made by the FIA to stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine and all of those suffering as a result of the ongoing conflict”.

Mazepin said he did not consider signing the document because he was dismissed by Haas the following day.

“I appreciated the small number of drivers who expressed their support for me,” said Mazepin, speaking from Moscow.

“Sergio (Perez), Valtteri (Bottas), Charles (Leclerc) and George (Russell) all contacted me.

“They know how important the situation is, and they showed their support after I lost the opportunity to compete.

“The messages were nothing political but just on a personal level – to keep my head up because athletes have been broken and lives have been destroyed after a decision like that.”

During a scripted five-minute monologue, Mazepin announced