Nikita Mazepin banned from racing in Formula 1 under Russian flag

Russian racer Nikita Mazepin will not be able to use official Russian symbols at Formula 1 championship stages. This was reported by the Russian Automobile Federation.

As the federation explained, this is due to the decision of the Court of Arbitration for Sport, according to which Russian athletes can participate in competitions with the status of a world championship only as neutral athletes until December 16, 2022.

In motor racing, in addition to Formula 1, this requirement will apply to Formula E, the World Rally Championship (WRC), rallycross (WRX), endurance racing (WEC) and karting. In junior racing series, such as Formula 2, where several Russian drivers compete, there are no such restrictions.

The requirements state that pilots cannot publicly display the Russian flag (but are not prohibited from decorating their car or helmet in its colours) and must only use the name Russia in combination with the phrase "neutral athlete".

• Nikita Mazepin will drive for the Haas team in the 2021 season, which begins in March. He will become the fourth driver from Russia in Formula 1 history.