Guenther Steiner, head of the Haas F1 Team, admits he is “sorry” for having to expel Russian driver Nikita Mazepin.
After Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Nikita Mazepin, backed by Russian company Uralkali, was replaced by Kevin Magnussen less than two weeks before the start of the 2022 F1 season.
Guenther Steiner, head of the Haas F1 Team, admits that the last few weeks have been “exhausted and boring.”
The Haas F1 Team, which has been doing well so far, was suddenly dragged into the midst of unprecedented private and public sanctions directed at the Russian government and its people.
“The worst should be over. For us, it’s just going up,” Guenther Steiner smiled at RTL.
“Whenever there is a drama, we are always full of surprises.”
Guenther Steiner confirmed in a press release that he would not race in 2022 and confirmed Nikita Mazepin’s claim that he did not actually speak directly.
“I did it in writing. I haven’t talked to him,” Guenther Steiner said.
Nikita Mazepin and Uralkali have not ruled out legal action, he and his father, Dmitry, have actually been nominated as EU sanctioned individuals against Russia.
“It’s a very complex subject even for legal professionals,” Guenther Steiner argues.
“We certainly lose money, but the team is financially stable. You don’t have to worry about the team. That’s the most important thing for me.”
Guenther Steiner admits that it is “difficult to say” as to whether Nikita Mazepin is considered an innocent victim of this event.
“Of course, I’m sorry whenever I have to do that. That’s exactly the external situation that neither I nor he can change. I have to deal with it and continue,” Guenther Steiner said. Said.
“I see it as part of my life”
Category: Category: F1 / Haas / Nikita Mazepin