Formula 1 is monitoring the crisis in Ukraine very closely as it faces sanctions against the Russian Grand Prix which is to be held in September in Sochi. The future of most sporting events in Russia has hit a doubtful spot, including the Champions League final which was set to be held in the Russian city.
Nadine Dorries, the Secretary of state for the Department for Media, Sport, Culture and Digital added that she had serious concerns about the sporting events due to be held in Russia. This is following the worrisome state of emergency announced in Ukraine after Russia commenced a military assault on two separatist regions.
While the Russian Grand Prix joined the Formula one race list back in October 2014, after annexing Crimea, the country had faced serious sanctions back then as well regarding the political stance. The American President, Joe Biden said that he would further impose sanctions far beyond the steps the allies and partners implemented in 2014 as tensions grow amid the crisis.
Formula 1 issued a short statement regarding the crisis at hand which explains that they are ‘ monitoring the situation closely and that if any developments take place, it shall be considered to be of the highest of regard. Nikita Mazepin, the only Russian Driver on the grid, said that he is focused on ‘sports without politics’ and is in excitement over being involved with a new car this F1 season while testing in Barcelona. The principal of the Haas team, Guenther Steiner, sponsored by a Russian fertiliser company, is ready to face any consequences following the crisis.
