The European Union is considering a boycott of the Russian Grand Prix F1

The tense situation between Russia and Ukraine – particularly the advancement of Russian troops on Ukrainian territory – could have a significant impact on the Russian Grand Prix. Indeed, the Financial Times reports that for the first time since the beginning of the crisis, European Union diplomats are discussing the implementation of a boycott of major international events scheduled to take place on Russian territory.

« According to a document on options that circulated in European capitals on Tuesday, the European Union is considering recommending the suspension of Russia from “major international cultural, economic, or sporting events,” such as Formula 1 races, European football competitions, and the upcoming World Cup, awarded to Russia in 2018, » explains the article from the American publication.

For the moment, such an action is only at the conceptual stage, according to a Lithuanian diplomat. But during a meeting organized on Monday within the international organization, a large number of delegations did not hide their enthusiasm for this idea. A reflection could be conducted, following the announcement of future sanctions, on a coordinated action on the sporting front.

In the 1970s and 1980s, during the height of the Cold War, the USSR’s invasion of Afghanistan led to a boycott of the Moscow Olympic Games in 1980 by several countries, with the United States leading the charge, followed four years later by a massive boycott of the Los Angeles Olympics by Eastern Bloc countries.

For Mujtaba Rahman, an analyst and member of the Eurasia Group, the interest in the boycott would be significant: « Boycotting a major international sporting event is typical of the Cold War. It will hurt the Russians much more than anything the EU will do financially. »

On the side of Bernie Ecclestone, the president of the Formula 1 Group, the political pressures following the shooting down of flight MH17 by what appears to be Russian separatists over Ukraine have not altered his intention to go to Sochi next October: “We have a contract, and I respect contracts. So, we will go there,” he declared to the Swiss newspaper Blick. Last week, the FOM boss described Vladimir Putin, the president of the Russian Federation, to CNN as a “super guy,” “trustworthy,” who “wants the race to happen.”

The announcement of a permanent ceasefire in recent hours could potentially lead to a reduction in tension and consequently in international pressure on Russia.