formula 1
Because of the Ukraine war: Sebastian Vettel boycotts the Russian Grand Prix
“I think it’s wrong to drive in this country,” commented Sebastian Vettel on the planned Formula 1 race in Sochi, with a view to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine
© Hasan Bratic / Picture Alliance
After the Russian attacks on Ukraine, Formula 1 driver Sebastian Vettel wants to boycott the race in Sochi. “My decision is already made,” he says.
Four-time Formula 1 world champion Sebastian Vettel has announced that he will boycott this year’s Russian Grand Prix. The reason for this is the military attacks by Russia on Ukraine. “My opinion is that I shouldn’t go there and I won’t either. I think it’s wrong to drive in this country,” says the Aston Martin driver on the sidelines of the test drives in Barcelona.
“I am very sorry for the innocent people who are losing their lives and being killed for stupid reasons and because of weird and crazy leadership,” said the 34-year-old. He was “shocked and saddened” by the events on Thursday and emphasized: “We’ll see how it goes, but my decision has already been made.”
Because of the Ukraine war: Verstappen wants a collective decision by the Formula 1 paddock
According to “Sport Bild”, Vettel is said to have informed his team in advance of his decision. However, there is no firm agreement on this, leaving the option open for the British team to travel to Russia without Vettel when the Grand Prix takes place.
Likewise, world champion Max Verstappen was not very enthusiastic about the Grand Prix in Russia. However, he did not rule out his participation at the current time. “We shouldn’t drive in a country that’s at war, but the entire paddock should decide,” says the Dutchman.
Formula 1 continues to monitor the situation in Russia and Ukraine for the time being
How and if the Russian Grand Prix will be held this year is not yet certain. “We will continue to monitor the situation very closely,” says Formula 1. It currently does not intend to cancel or postpone the race planned for September 25, 2022 in Sochi. The race has been held in Sochi, Russia, since 2014. This year it was supposed to be held there for the last time, as it is scheduled to take place outside the gates of St. Petersburg from 2023.
swell: “sports picture“, dpa, “Independent“