F1 terminates the contract of the promoter of the Russian GP

The Russian invasion of Ukraine has sparked a reaction from the world of motorsport. Even though the Sochi Grand Prix was canceled on Tuesday, its promoter Rosgonki was still mentioning the possibility of a race until the latest announcement from F1.

This Thursday, Formula 1 confirmed the termination of the contract with the Russian Grand Prix, which was supposed to last until 2025, through a statement: “Formula 1 can confirm that it has terminated its contract with the promoter of the Russian Grand Prix, meaning that Russia will no longer host any races in the future.” In other words, Sochi will no longer see any F1 races. This statement also cancels the plans to change the circuit in the country, as Russia was planning to move to Saint Petersburg in 2023.

This decision is the result of the last-minute meeting held in Barcelona last week, bringing together Formula 1 officials and team leaders.

Motor racing is not alone in this movement. There are numerous organizations that make it up, like the Beijing Paralympic Games, which prohibit access to all Russian or Belarusian athletes. FIFA has also taken measures, suspending the Russian national team and clubs of the same nationality.

Earlier in the week, an exceptional meeting was held to decide the fate of Russian and Belarusian athletes. And if the FIA grants them the right to compete under a neutral flag, the British Federation simply prohibits them from participating in any race organized on their soil.

The ultimate pending question concerns the fate of Nikita Mazepin at Haas. After Uralkali’s withdrawal from the new car, the driver is still not certain if he will be able to race this season.