The Situation Between Russia and Ukraine is not Being Ignored by Formula 1

Formula One is one of the most geographically diverse sports with drivers and sponsors from across the world. Following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, many drivers and teams have spoken out against Russian sponsors and the Russian Grand Prix.

Four-time world champion and current Aston Martin Aramco Cognizant driver Sebastian Vettel said, “For myself, my opinion is I should not go, I will not go. I’m just really shocked and sad to see what’s going on. We will see going forward, but I think my decision is already made.”

He is not the only one speaking out against the Grand Prix as defending world champion Max Verstappen said, “When a country is at war it’s not correct to race there, that’s for sure.”

The drivers are not the only ones speaking out against the issue, as the only American team on the grid, Haas, has dropped their name sponsor Uralkali, a Russian company. This is a big loss for the team as Uralkali provided a large amount of money for them. The car is also changing its livery from a red, white, and blue car that looks like a Russian flag to an all-white livery. The Russian driver for Haas, Nikita Mazepin, is in jeopardy of losing his seat as Haas is ready to replace him with their reserve driver.

The FIA has yet to decide whether they will hold the Russian Grand Prix or not, but most of the grid does not wish to race in Russia.