Sergio Perez Voices Concern for Nikita Mazepin & Other Russian Athletes’ Fate Amid Ukraine War

Ever since the Russia-Ukraine conflict started, things have not been easy for Haas F1 driver Nikita Mazepin. The American team recently announced that they won’t be moving forward with him or the sponsor Uralkali.

There have been worldwide reactions to this conflict, and various stances have emerged regarding Russian Athletes. UK and German governments have already taken a step to ban several Russian athletes, while many Russian events also stand canceled now. FIA were also quick to take action and cancel the Russian Grand Prix.

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Haas F1 wanted to avoid criticism and conflict with other sponsors. They recently replaced Mazepin with Pietro Fittipaldi. However, Fittipaldi has replaced Romain Grosjean before, back in 2020 for Haas, and will act as a temporary replacement until confirmed.

Sergio Perez does not agree with the treatment of Russian drivers

Red Bull’s acclaimed driver, Sergio Perez, recently offered his take on the situation. He made a post where he expressed his grief over the situation and wished for the tension to be diffused. He also pointed out the dilemma that Russian drivers are going through and stated, “All my prayers are with our brothers in Ukraine and with the Russians who’re in pain under the leadership of people like that.”

While speaking in an interview, ‘Checo’ further said, “Right now, in a way, the Russian athletes are paying the price for what happened.

“I personally disagree because I don’t think an athlete should be held responsible for the actions of the head of state.

“On the other hand, what happened is sad and we are in a really difficult period.

“It is both difficult and very sad to accept that such a thing (war) will happen in the 21st century,” he said.

The fact that Russian athletes do not get to keep their seats was disheartening for Perez.

‘Checo’ ready for another season

Perez joined Red Bull for their 2021 campaign. It’s safe to say that the ‘Minister of Defense’ was a great addition. He had a great season with Red Bull and played a pivotal partin Max Verstappen’s title win. Perez’s defending against the ace driver Lewis Hamilton has now become one of the most legendary moments in the sport.

Red Bull, on the other hand, paid back Checo’s Herculean effort and kept him for the 2022 season. The new season begins on March 20, 2022, at the Bahrain International Circuit. Checo would look to stay another season at Red Bull and also be a championship contender.

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