Calls for Mazepin's departure: 'Separation only right option'

Nikita Mazepin was busy preparing for the new season in recent weeks when Vladimir Putin decided to attack Ukraine. It causes the Russian driver to fear an early departure from Formula 1, a decision that Ralf Schumacher would favor.

Mazepin made his debut in Formula 1 last season. The Russian was not only unlucky that Haas invested little in the 2021 car, but also his own performance was not to write home about. Nevertheless, the American racing team chose to continue their cooperation in the new season.

However, the war in Ukraine turned the situation upside down. Fierce statements against Russia's decision are heard worldwide. The athletes are also coming under increasing pressure. For example, the German DMSB announced that it was excluding both Russian and Belarusian athletes from racing events.

Behind the scenes, Haas would be discussing whether it should keep Mazepin. Schumacher would understand very well if the formation chooses to part with the driver, he let Sky Sports Deutschland know. "It's a difficult situation, but separating is the only right option at the moment," he stated.