Nikita Mazepin says he has “confidence” that a future return to Formula 1 is possible.
The Russian driver was dropped by Haas before the start of this season in response to his country’s invasion of Ukraine, with Kevin Magnussen making a comeback as his replacement.
And though the conflict remains ongoing, with strict measures put in place for Russian drivers looking to compete, Mazepin is sure the F1 door isn’t locked yet.
“Of course, I can’t say what will happen tomorrow, but all my life I have wanted to get into Formula 1,” he said via Sport Express.
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“I’ve already got there, but the appetite comes with eating and I have no doubts what I could do in a competitive car.
“I have confidence that in the future it will be possible to return,” he added. “Therefore, I am at the same weight and have kept myself in good physical shape, so if such a challenge arises I will be able to take advantage of it.”
Should another chance in F1 not arise, however, Mazepin is keen to try out another form of motorsport.
“My career is now on hiatus,” he told Ria Novosti news agency.
“But I have been involved in motorsport for 18 years, and I have no intention of leaving it. I’m keeping fit and I hope to return to Formula 1.
“If it doesn’t work out, I will consider other options. For example, I’m interested in racing in the desert. The Dakar is possible, as is the Silk Road rally.”
Earlier this month, it was also revealed Mazepin is suing his former team over unpaid wages.
“At the termination of the contract Haas had a salary debt to me for this year and they still haven’t paid it,” he said via Championat.
“It seems to me that the employer should at least compensate the salary until the moment of termination and probably pay some severance pay.
“When the whole world kicks you somewhere…that’s probably wrong. But that’s just my opinion.
“The breakdown of the agreement with the title sponsor (Uralkali) had no direct impact on my future in the team,” Nikita noted.
“That is, they made two separate decisions. I have not seen my money, that is why we are going to court. This is my personal story. Documents have already been filed with the court.”