The General Court of the European Union ruled on Wednesday that former Formula One driver Nikita Mazepin should be removed from the EU’s list of individuals subjected to restrictive measures due to his involvement in Russia’s conflict with Ukraine.
Mazepin was included in the sanctions list by the EU two years ago following Russia’s invasion, primarily due to his father’s ties to the Kremlin. Consequently, he lost his seat in Formula One with Haas.
Since President Vladimir Putin ordered Russian troops into Ukraine, the EU has implemented multiple rounds of sanctions targeting various sectors, including energy, banking, and prominent Russian individuals, with asset freezes and travel bans.
Among those targeted were Mazepin and his father Dmitry, the CEO of Uralchem, a major mineral fertilizer company.
Nikita Mazepin contested the EU’s decision, arguing that it had misjudged his involvement. The court sided with him, stating that his familial connection to his father was not sufficient to justify his inclusion in the sanctions list.
Two years ago, the EU had identified Dmitry Mazepin as a member of Putin’s inner circle and considered Nikita’s ties to his father as grounds for his inclusion in the sanctions.
Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Haas terminated Mazepin’s contract, leaving him stunned. He announced plans to establish a foundation to support athletes affected by Russia’s actions. Additionally, Haas severed ties with sponsor Uralkali amid the turmoil.
Amidst the conflict, the FIA, motorsport’s governing body, banned Russia from international events but permitted individual drivers to participate as neutrals without national symbols, flags, or anthems.
