Nikita Mazepin feels his efforts were ignored by Haas after the team terminated his contract on Saturday.
The Russian’s future was thrown into uncertainty following the invasion of Ukraine by Russian forces late last month, with Mazepin’s father Dimitry an ally of President Vladimir Putin.
Haas responded by changing their Russian-themed livery and removing all Uralkali branding from their car and trucks for the final day of the pre-season test in Barcelona.
The final decision to end their ties with Mazepin and Uralkali was then made this week.
“Haas F1 Team has elected to terminate, with immediate effect, the title partnership of Uralkali, and the driver contract of Nikita Mazepin,” a team statement read.
“As with the rest of the Formula 1 community, the team is shocked and saddened by the invasion of Ukraine and wishes for a swift and peaceful end to the conflict.”
Earlier in the week, the FIA had confirmed drivers with Russian and Belarussian licences could still compete under a neutral flag but only after signing a document that:
- Banned any public display of national symbols, flags and colours of any kind, including on social media
- Prohibited the playing of the national anthem of both countries at any FIA event
- Prohibited any comments, actions or comments which indicated support for Russia’s invasion or was prejudicial to the FIA
And in a social media post shortly after his Haas exit was confirmed, Mazepin revealed he was willing to abide by all measures imposed.
“Dear fans and followers, I am very disappointed to hear that my F1 contract has been terminated,” he began.
“While I understand the difficulties, the ruling from the FIA plus my ongoing willingness to accept the conditions proposed in order to continue were completely ignored and no process was followed in this unilateral step.
“To those who have tried to understand, my eternal thanks. I have treasured my time in F1 and genuinely hope we all be together again in better times.
“I will have more to say in the coming days.”
As for Haas, no replacement for Mazepin has been confirmed yet, but reserve driver Pietro Fittipaldi is widely expected to be promoted into the seat alongside Mick Schumacher for the start of the season.
Since the Ukraine conflict began, F1 has cancelled its contract with the Russian Grand Prix, while Motorsport UK has banned any Russian or Belarussian drivers from competing in any 2022 events.