Nikita Mazepin's F1 future in doubt as Haas dragged into Russia fallout

The Haas team could need a new driver and sponsor as the consequences of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine spill over into the world of Formula 1.
A military attack on Ukraine ordered by Russia’s president Vladimir Putin began on Thursday after a long period of escalating tensions.
Within 24 hours it was agreed that September’s planned Russian GP couldn’t go ahead, while Haas was plunged into a difficult situation to resolve with its Russian title sponsor Uralkali and driver Nikita Mazepin.
#F1 #NikitaMazepin #Haas
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[@chiyangikanjungu5939]

This is a perfect opportunity for Andretti. Join a partnership with HAAS, then take over full control of the team later on. HAAS would be eager for a large name like Andretti to partner the team, and that would guarantee financial security. Gene Haas would lose a team he's struggling financial to maintain, and Andretti gets a team they have full control over

[@illuminaticat4861]

Do you think Andretti would really want to start at the back of the grid, with a team that had 20% more time to develop their 2022 car?

[@lightninlarry8936]

This is a great idea. US viewership of F1 is at an all-time high. Partner with Andretti, get some American sponsors, and put Colton Herta in the second seat.

[@TheEdge549]

@@illuminaticat4861 why not? If he were to start from scratch and be the 21st team he would more than likely start at the back of the grid anyways.

[@slinky_malinki5330]

Honestly that would kinda suck. It means we won't have an 11th fresh team and 22 cars in 2024.

[@dukcy7450]

Agreed

[@FellianTheDragon]

I've heard so many different pronunciations of Uralkali that I have no idea what the correct pronunciation is

[@CodingWithAsad]

well mazapin is also holds a citizen of the U.K so i don't think visa problem causes any issue to him.

[@mrj3217]

Andretti here's your chance to get in on a team.

[@ankitrawat7660]

Looks like there will be entry of Andretti.

[@TheKingkingg]

Sometimes business and political issues should be separate, but we all know this is serious implications for entire world 🌎

[@IsGAdrian]

Haas needs to sign the American driver Logan sergeant asap !!

[@TheGreatBritishFarm]

I'd love to see Gio back.

[@zush7421]

Fittipaldi for the 2022 season then ?

[@1239kieran]

Feel bad for haas can't get a break, and I reckon it's unfair on nakita depending on how his views of the war is if he doesn't support the war he should have a place in f1 even if his dad paid his way in

[@timonotglock3111]

Genuinely feel bad for the entire team. Started off with promise, but have somehow always found themselves at the epicentre of controversy. Really hope they can regain some ground, Haas are unique in their own right.

[@tommymckeown1699]

100% agree

[@dukcy7450]

An american team like haas deserves a chance in f1

[@DefinitelyNotEmma]

@@dukcy7450 What has them being American to do with that?

[@DefinitelyNotEmma]

@@dukcy7450 If anything, we would need a Japanese team on the grid

[@runninginthe90s75]

Honestly i feel bad for Mick Schumacher, he is nothing to do with the sh*t show happens in Haas but it affects his career so bad. I'm just hoping for brighter future for Mick because he has talent and he still haven't shows his true talent yet.

[@plazmalad2404]

If Andretti’s appeal to make their own team falls through this week with the FIA, they should definitely consider buying Haas. Might just be easier that way for both sides

[@tunptl18]

Good shout... or maybe even step in as a sponsor in a transition deal? (if long term health of Haas is at risk)

[@mitchiegxxr350]

True, pity its not an extra team on the grid then.

[@purwantiallan5089]

@@tunptl18 ??

[@purwantiallan5089]

@@mitchiegxxr350 i hope FIA add more teams on the grid.

[@JakeM218]

@@tunptl18 Andretti and Haas are direct rivals. Haas have their finances secure. The new budget cap is in place, and 1&1 have been waiting to increase their sponsorship deal with the team.

[@BoyFromBelgium99]

*After the problems with Rich Energy, you really feel bad for HAAS with another problem with Russia now.*

[@Redskies453]

Doesn't seem to be a coincidence that they can't get a real sponsor. I wouldn't say it's luck.

[@f1jones544]

If only someone could see either of these deals falling apart like they have. But that was clearly impossible... For them, I guess.

[@Scou73r]

Why the fuck would I feel bad for billionaires that signed Russian sponsorship after the Russian invasion of Crimea a few years ago? Surely I'm not the only one to have seen this Ukraine stuff coming.

[@BoyFromBelgium99]

@@Scou73r I have seen it coming too but in business you accept an opportunity when it arrives. Hopefully they'll find a solution that HAAS can stay in F1.

[@Greg_Chase]

You have to assume there is immense sensitivity to possible fallout, down the road, of being involved with a rogue, pariah state. The businesses in the 1930s and 1940s who supplied Germany had some real trouble with shame, reputational loss, and legal trouble once the fighting ended and the rogue leadership was gone. This is a business decision, and if your options are 'support Hitler' or 'go out of business', you have to go out of business. You cannot, in the year 2022, attack a sovereign country to steal access to its resources and pipelines to Europe with the assumed goal of FLEECING everyone in Europe for energy supplies/delivery. There is really no decision here - you cannot do business with a thug state. There is too much collateral damage to your business that you cannot even predict as this horror show rolls along with putin/lavrov/et al

[@FarrYaweh]

I can't believe the poor luck this team has had over the last few years. I will be rooting for them, even as a Mclaren fan - they deserve better than to be wrapped up in some new controversy every year.

[@Sphagetti__]

As a Max fan (not one of ~those~ fans), me too. They were already basically forced to take the Uralkali-Mazepin deal

[@braveheart4603]

@@Sphagetti__ I've never found myself rooting for mazepin before but it would be sad if he lost his drive purely because he's russian.

[@vinnie8792]

i mean... they kinda choose to go for the fast '"easy" but risky money....

[@jeremiahbachmann3901]

When you make a deal with the Russian mob and then those folk invade another country causing the civilized world to sanction the mobsters, you kinda need to deal with it with no sympathy.

[@johnk190]

Whilst the engineers and employees aren't to blame Gene Haas has created his own bad luck with very blatantly dodgy sponsorship deals.

[@donaldduck4888]

In these grim times there is at least a moment of comfort in the thought F1 will be rid of Mazepin.

[@kghyeah9032]

Haas gave Nikita a seat based on funding. He is a pay driver. If he cannot pay, he no longer has a seat. Let’s not act like his talent got him here.

[@garbage2882]

Yeah, but let's not act like they can buy themselves a new driver, and I don't think we know if they will pay Haas yet.

[@ishaankhandelwal7798]

@@garbage2882 I mean a lot of drivers would be willing to drive in f1 even with a backmarker like haas

[@brycesumrall7248]

@@garbage2882 they 100% can find a new driver lol Lots of people would drive for free for all they care if it got them f1 seat time.

[@ernestovargas4120]

@@garbage2882 Im asuming Oscar Piastri would be more than happy to take up a seat in f1

[@caphowdy666]

@@garbage2882 There are drivers who are backed by teams. Piastri for instance is backed by Renault/Alpine, and would bring their money with him. And before people think they would not be able to put an Alpine driver in a Ferrari powered car, try to remember that Red Bull debuted Ricciardo in a HRT in 2011. And despite Mercedes debuting Werhline in a Merc powered Manor, they moved him to the Ferrari powered Sauber the next year when Manor went out of business.

[@rishabh3150]

Damn, Haas and a title sponsor are a nightmare combination..

[@fixer10091994]

Having a russian main sponsor had to backfire eventually...

[@purwantiallan5089]

@@fixer10091994 replace russian sponsor with Aikatsu Friends 2016.

[@commanderlewisskipperton8721]

@@Nick-mt4wk Damar is kinda weird so don't be surprised.

[@JakeM218]

1&1 have been waiting to become title sponsor for awhile. It’ll be an easy transition, and their finances are secure with the new budget cap.

[@redbullsauberpetronas]

@@fixer10091994 they should've tried to get a Saudi sponsor, their wars are westerner approved

[@axelode45]

I would love to see Mick and Piastri together at Haas

[@johncash8243]

Bring back K MAG, the guy who took fastest lap in the slowest car twice.

[@daverussell457]

It would be great to see the 2 most recent F2 champions in the same team.

[@daverussell457]

@Damar Fadlan Asuna Yuuki and Yuuki Konno can be grid girls for Yuki Tsunoda.

[@Micfri300]

Giovanazzi is getting that seat.

[@axelode45]

@@Micfri300 That would be cool too

[@ollywright]

Respect to Gene Haas and Guenther for responding so swiftly and clearly.

[@DiscoStringHit]

Not sure they had a choice with the sanctions.

[@juliusraw]

clearly? what exactly was clear in their statements

[@pavelsovicka5292]

@@juliusraw The fact that they ripped down any hint of a Russian flag they could is more than any statement they gave.

[@marktaylor865]

Piss off. Why should they have done anything?.

[@PopeKarul]

@@marktaylor865 because sanctions are going to essentially limit any form of funding coming from the west into russia. This will include anything like advertisement etc. Its easier to just bail on anything Russia atm until they fuck off out of Ukraine.

[@illuminaughty2929]

If Russian money disappeared, then Andretti should buy HAAS.

[@soisaidtogod4248]

No enough cash in Andretti's pockets.

[@keiton9512]

@@soisaidtogod4248 Yet they have the financial ability to pay the $200m+ and all the costs of starting a team? Whole heartedly disagree with your comment

[@jacobshelor419]

@@soisaidtogod4248 they have more than enough money to buy out. Costs more to enter brand new than to buy out another team

[@KingofFray]

@@soisaidtogod4248 But Andretti want to make his own team, which is baffling

[@baldGUYYY]

@@KingofFray not the best choice, Stroll wanted it too, and now he's managing Aston Martin

[@V8VRUte]

I think a deal with Aline to get Piastri in the seat would be an ideal option, both for HAAS, and Alpine, as well as Oscar himself as well. It will give him experience in an F1 car, it will give Alpine a chance to assess his performance, and likely hood of a full time drive with them for 2023, and it gets a very talented driver in their car at short notice.

[@IvyLeather13]

Steiner being so forthright about Mazepin's status says a lot.

[@MetalCharlo]

He's getting dropped next week 100%

[@riddlebergerbrothers26]

@@MetalCharlo sad to see him go tbh

[@TheAdnanmajor]

One less Pay Driver on the grid. I am totally okay with that.

[@KidKat__]

@UNIA LTD dude, it's not just gonna be because of what russia's doing. They're also taking into account that Mazepin will most likely have a travel ban for most of the calendar. He's not worth anything if he's going to be sitting on the bench for most of the 20+ race calendar. They're better off finding a new driver then. You also have to remember that if payments are going to be restricted internationally from Russia, then there's no reason to keel the Uralkali sponsor either. Also, "sanctions don't work well" sanctions are pretty effective if countries go through with their travel bans and severing financial connections. With how terrible Russia's doing right now, they'll end up financially collapsing before 2022's over if this keeps going.

[@riddlebergerbrothers26]

@@KidKat__ Putin is smart as hell. He got enough recourse to set himself up even if he does get sanctioned. He's not worried all too much cuz he got something up his sleeve

[@boyhash1]

Would be great to see Haas embrace their "American Team" credentials and get a solid US title sponsor. I think would bring in a lot more Americans to the sport with a "home team" to cheer for.

[@javajoint]

Andretti comes to mind

[@modezityyy]

@@javajoint or even Ford, it would be awesome for them to make a grand return to f1

[@paradoxinfinity-y2b]

its not that Haas should embrace them, USA should embrace. Haas, lol.

[@purwantiallan5089]

@@javajoint yes. Aikatsu Friends 2015 may sponsor HAAS also.

[@purwantiallan5089]

@@modezityyy Ford and potentially Proto Motors and Gudang Garam Intersport?

[@mateusbez2669]

Get Oscar Piastri in there! BTW - I am pretty sure placing Pietro Fittipaldi in that seat could earn a few decent Brazilian sponsors. We are one of F1 biggest markets with no F1 driver.

[@SuperRoo_22]

Yeah for sure. Our Oscar deserves a drive. 👍🇦🇺 😎

[@redbullsauberpetronas]

@@SuperRoo_22 he's got the money, quit your crying

[@paulsnow1289]

@@redbullsauberpetronas bit of a troll aren't you flog.

[@thesmokinduck2344]

Really weird how the "Not a russian flag" livery, is suddenly removed due to being exactly the same as the russian flag.

[@rewmeister]

weird huh? haha

[@olebogengthothela1191]

More to do with the sponsor being Russian than the colours.

[@killerful]

Not really. It's the Russian sponsorship being removed. If its colours were any different, it would still be removed because the colours are part of the sponsor.

[@thesmokinduck2344]

@@olebogengthothela1191 And the colours were arranged to look like which flag exactly? When it was explicitly stated that no form of russian flag could be used? There're many ways to utilise those colours to not look exactly like the russian flag. This is my point.

[@thesmokinduck2344]

@@killerful When it was explicitly stated that no form of russian flag could be used? There're many ways to utilise those colours to not look exactly like the russian flag. This is my point.

[@theo10008]

Hulk & Schumacher in one team would be great 😬

[@ElementsUnknown]

Team GigaChad

[@vfnt]

Here is what I wish: - Hulk returns with Haas - German GP instead of Russia - Hulk finally gets a podium, preferably in the German GP

[@TheRazerx7]

@@vfnt or david schumacher could get a chance if his license and talent are well enough.

[@stephenhoward8433]

barely even has been, piastri is the most obvious choice

[@SkodaYetiFan]

I mean it's been well over a year and a half since Hulk has driven competitively. If they want an experienced driver they are better off trying to poach Gio from FE.

[@flavious27]

Good on Haas for being quick this time with a response to a situation with Maz. For sponsorship, I would rather see Andretti get their own team so there would be two US teams. Their title sponsor should be an US based company, and not a company that is involved with gas or oil. As for a replacement driver, I would love to see a team give Hulk one last good shot. He stepped in and performed so well on short notice with RP / AM. His experience will help Mick alot more than another rookie.

[@FerWable]

I thought the same. Even being Brazilian and rooting for Pietro I would love to see Haas with an experienced driver and see where their car can go. I'd go for hulkenberg for sure.

[@justahyundai]

Fact that Haas is still alive deserves some credit, never mind the racing.

[@MakewithJosh]

Piastri is a no brainer, awesome talent and a major upgrade from Mazepen

[@khda891]

I second this motion

[@zbynekurbanek3345]

Fittipaldi, Hulkenberg and Giovinazzi are all also major upgrades from Mazepin.

[@ctibpo991]

Giovanni's a better bet - he's available, he's proven and not prone to crashed, there are Ferrari connections and let's not forget he wasn't far off Kimi, a former WDC - and he gets a second chance... all it took was an act of war 🙄😥

[@jpq6257]

Give Nick de Vries a chance !

[@HallucinatingHedgehogs]

I like that option, I think if Andretti buys them out they’ll probably get gio or hulk for a season until herta can get enough super license points to take over next season.

[@johnrex9612]

Grosjean has good results in Indycar (including podiums in the previous season, after the first race he is 5th). I don't think it would be a good idea to return to the Haas, especially when we know his history with the team

[@13bathory1986]

I hope the F1 continues to run in places, where the enlightment , peace and diversity is embraced. Countries like Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Turkey and of course Azerbajan.

[@Marcelg13]

😂 yeah exactly

[@fastballfilms4214]

Saudi Arabia and Turkey are not that type of country.

[@thesaint5991]

@@fastballfilms4214 omg you need to understand sarcasm .

[@DefinitelyNotEmma]

@@fastballfilms4214 Neither are Azerbaijan (attacks Armenia) nor Qatar (human rights violations)

[@DefinitelyNotEmma]

The FIA is super hypocritical. I understand that they would like to take a pause from Russia but to be serious about it they would have to leave these places too. But it's all about the money anyway. They also had GPs in China, despite Uyghur genocide...

[@dylangrowney2403]

Can’t blame Haas for dropping the sponsors with Nikita’s father having such close ties with Putin, hoping another team will step up and be a title sponsor and get someone like pisatri in the car, because we know Nikita is solely in that car for his dads money

[@Tim_3100]

I agree

[@agrapanambunan5288]

they're just removing the stickers off practice for now, they're not dropping the sponsors.

[@crazycjk]

@leipero loooool you think F1/FIA and politics have never mixed before!?

[@rewmeister]

for real, especially hearing the father was on of 37 people to be briefed by putin....

[@captainsensible4843]

@leipero hate to tell you this pal but politics is part of almost every facet of life and society including sports

[@SkyHighSportsCards]

If they were smart they'd bring in Nico H to replace him , he'd be a great mentor for mick and has enough experience to help haas move up

[@indigo8210]

He's with Aston Martin so that won't happen

[@fredsmith3963]

Awesome to see Haas make this decision so quickly.

[@realMaverickBuckley]

It's not Mazepins fault. Are we gonna ban Zhou for China having literal concentration camps of over 1 million people and selling the organs of living Uyghur Muslims? Or its Subversion of Hong Kong? Or its conquering of Mongolia? Or its illegal imperialism in the 'South China' Sea? Or its open declaration of conquering Taiwan with Russias help? What about US drivers? Or Mid East races with what's happening in Yemen?

[@jeppepuus]

@@realMaverickBuckley The Mazepin family has connections in the russian government. Mazepin needs to leave F1. Schwarzman however, I have no problem with.

[@dragospahontu]

@@realMaverickBuckley the war isn't going to last more than two weeks. I think HAAS acted too quickly.

[@dannyarcher6370]

Like they had a choice. Oligarchs have been sanctioned.

[@KM-qk1oz]

@@realMaverickBuckley last time I checked China wasn’t invading Taiwan. So until then why should Zhou leave?

[@lowblazin1]

Perfect time for Andretti to swoop in and buy HAAS

[@chrisleyda1451]

Or partner, though they are competitors in nascar so it may not be possible

[@BAndersen-ee1xy]

The logistics do not make sense. This is why Michael would like to build his own team. I believe their main base is in Indianapolis.

[@khda891]

I’d rather they make a new team so I’ll cross my fingers they don’t buy haas out

[@thomastessmer9357]

Tom Old club racer, billionaires with egos 1st try mixed no shot likely.

[@Cottoncandyrandy458]

@@BAndersen-ee1xy they originally were in talks to buy a current team but only backed out after Alfa demanded 51% of control. They would buy a team.

[@JakeM218]

Gunther confirmed their finances are secure in an interview with Sky F1. They can easily hit the budget cap, even without Uralkali. 1+1 have confirmed they’d like to increase their sponsorship, and Gene Haas will fund a slight shortfall. Haas are the ones trying to break their contract with Uralkali. It’s not Uralkali withdrawing from Haas F1.

[@Malignant88]

Might be an easy ticket for Andretti to get in.

[@purwantiallan5089]

@the Game, Review and Reallife Channel yes. 70 plus could be nice.

[@noneofyourbusiness1990]

exactly, that's what I thought too ...

[@dashcam2417]

A 2022 car that has been 2 years in development .... hopefully Haas can find a new deal to help let this car fly.

[@BassDat33]

mazespin is a dangerous factor in a f1 track due to his low speed and inconsistency. hopefully someone more deserving can be in that seat

[@user-nl4cn1ew4w]

Would love to see how Mick stacks up against hulkenberg

[@ctibpo991]

Or even Giovanni

[@CallsignEskimo-l3o]

It would be great the see the Hulk with another full time drive. A nice guy with experience lifting a weaker team up the grid.

[@MrNurdiboy]

The Hulk would make Schumacher look decidedly average I reckon, he's a bit of a hype job due to his heritage, yes he can drive but not at this level.....convince me otherwise :-)

[@karlloovali4531]

Hulkenberg is yesterdays news, he drove 182 races and didnt luck a single podium. This is a good opportunity for Piastri.

[@DimitriMoreira]

@@MrNurdiboy Agree, but Hulk is in really bad shape and he's also very unlucky. Mick could very well end up beating him. Plus the age thing.

[@gggaming2009]

haas kinda screwed ngl

[@chaoszombie9995]

I know Haas is struggling... and I wish i could help Haas out in these times of hardships. That being said, I think UralKali being pulled from the Haas car as a sponsor is probably the best decision.. I dont speak for the team obviously.. but i think being associated with a government run company during the invasion of Ukraine could have even worse effects then what they would otherwise be going through. I also hope the companies and others involved make the correct decision.

[@redbullsauberpetronas]

Everyone's fine with Aston running a sponsor that partakes in bombing a country how is this somehow worse?

[@chaoszombie9995]

​@@redbullsauberpetronas Putin bombed a city.. committed MULTIPLE war crimes... and even ran over innocent civilian cars with tanks... if your telling me that this is better than what has happened in recent times... I genuinely don't know what to say

[@redbullsauberpetronas]

@@chaoszombie9995 Saudi bombs cities daily, Saudi has committed multiple war crimes, the tank running over the car was actually a Ukrainian tank, stop falling for propaganda. Just admit it it's ok to be at war as long as you're killing brown people

[@faydn3150]

@@redbullsauberpetronas Stop with these nonsense comments

[@redbullsauberpetronas]

@@faydn3150 cope and sneed

[@cartledge_uk]

Drive2survive are rubbing hands with delight! A full episode out of this and Gunter's swearing alone

[@IZn0g0uDatAll]

Haha can’t wait to see that

[@ZohaibAli-sq4sx]

Can we get Oscar piastri in this seat

[@rewmeister]

almost anyone else, plz

[@stephenhoward8433]

@@rewmeister scared he will show mick up r u?

[@TheTomAbz]

Honestly you cant have a driver in your team who has his visa blocked. I feel bad for haas i hope they get a new sponsor

[@dukcy7450]

The return of rich energy and magnussen hopefully Or, haas was waiting for this all along to sign shock contract with marcus ericsson

[@placeholder2924]

Maybe this was all part of Rich Energy's masterplan to get back into F1.

[@marioelburro1492]

They got a reserve driver for a reason

[@genericroadman9614]

Why would you want rich energy back?

[@andygwynne3264]

Bring back Hulkenberg

[@Idk_thoo]

Ericsson is locked into an indycar team he ain't gonna go

[@_stitch]

Nice not to have the constant "like and subscribe" interruptions. As always your content speaks for itself. Straight to the point, no teasing or bias, fantastic as always. If Mazepin was replaced it'd be nice to see some fresh blood in F1. The others are nice guys, but they've definitely had their chance.

[@superninja252]

Probally Fittipaldi Grandson, that already raced on HAAS while Grosjean was out due that Bahrain injuries

[@LLG47]

What do you mean fresh blood, there have been SO many new drivers in the past few years.

[@khda891]

I beg Oscar gets a seat so it’s a lineup of two back to back F2 champions

[@alexcallas8222]

Not if, but when he's replaced. I was horrified at the mere mention of the possible return of the Shunt Brothers, Grosjean and Magnusson.

[@riddlebergerbrothers26]

A brotha from Chicago would be lit

[@sacha96155]

Aren't the UAE and KSA bombing Yemen? Isn't Azerbaijan bombing Armenia? Isn't the US bombing Iraq? This entire discussion has become ridiculous.

[@tomatwalden]

Always thought Mazepin was a poor choice and a poor driver. Having a Haas car look like a Russian flag with wheels always struck me as odd too given it’s a US team!

[@RafaSilva98]

It doesn't matter where the team is from. Liveries are decided by sponsors

[@MrNurdiboy]

money talks unfortunately

[@riddlebergerbrothers26]

@@MrNurdiboy Mazepin had some potential. Sadly simps had to make a situation out of the situation with the girl

[@WinWin-oo4uk]

So if it had 50 stars you would feel better about it?

[@vsbcsherby]

@@riddlebergerbrothers26 ya he was a good F2 driver

[@diegovianavillegas3297]

A Haas-Andretti association may be the best option herr, throwing Maze-spin out of the window.

[@davidca96]

oooh and its a spin from mazaspin!

[@soisaidtogod4248]

LOL, zero concept of how the real world works. Andretti has not enough cash, that is why last time failed as well.

[@F3RRO1]

@@soisaidtogod4248 The reason why Alfa Romeo attempt failed was because of control issues not financial. Unfortunately they didn't want Andretti to control the team that's why they backed out. Andretti was set to buy 80% of the Alfa Romeo F1 team.

[@F3RRO1]

@@soisaidtogod4248 I also saw your other comment. Andretti have the money to buy an F1 team like HAAS or even make a new one which is a more expensive option.

[@riddlebergerbrothers26]

@@kaneworthington a brotha from Chicago

[@woody5109]

Good luck to HAAS, great guys, great team, great leadership, unfortunately there’s always a log under their buss.

[@Mental_Egg]

The fastest HAAS has ever been in F1, including in a race car, too

[@anthonyriordan2391]

Been a fan of Haas since I got into F1 about 5 years ago and when I started watching Haas was a somewhat respectable mid field team on the brink of something great. Since then it seems to have gotten worse every year from declining performance, issues with drivers, issues with sponsors (Rich Energy--what a joke) and now this. This is more heart breaking than the first sponsor issue because I feel Haas never should have taken money from a company that is obviously fraudulent with no substance, in this case global politics are at play and the team can only sit and hope for the best. For the record, without Uralkali and Mazepin money I don't see how the team could survive any longer unless they''ve built a miraculous car that will attract new sponsors.

[@robh9577]

Haas was originally propped up by Ferrari horsepower and using their suspension (which was very easy on the tires and amazing in hot weather) when Ferrari went for shit so did haas, just like alfa dropped like a stone around the same time.

[@anthonyriordan2391]

@@robh9577 At this point I wouldn't mind if they became the B team for Ferrari in all but name. I'll take anything at this point.

[@KeenJT]

Agreed, but I personally feel that the team owner (gene) is all to blame.

[@anthonyriordan2391]

@@KeenJT Double edge sword. Without him there wouldn't be a team but you're right he doesn't appear to be an effective owner.

[@PaperBanjo64]

@@anthonyriordan2391 his NASCAR team sucked until Tony Stewart bought half of it, like recent year Williams bad, and they even had good motors from Hendrick Motorsports, much like Williams with Mercedes power but still struggling at the back.

[@MikuFan3931]

Let Andretti buy HAAS. He can help them. This would be perfect for him, and for us. Russia dosen’t deserve to be in the sport after what Putin did to 🇺🇦.

[@Cookiemaster98_98]

Its sad that haas always find themselves in deep trouble, be it financial, shit sponsors or geopolitical

[@volvos70t51]

Unfortunately that's what can happen when you are at the bottom of the F1 pack, you have to take whatevers offered just to stay barely afloat

[@jussayinmipeece1069]

Would be great to have Hulkenburg back though.

[@NovaDaGoat]

The only issue could be his wages cause there was a rumour that Haas couldn’t pay his salary

[@james-cq4bn]

Well if hulkenburg is desperate for a return to f1 he'll lower his wage demands by a huge amount

[@vfnt]

That would be awesome. I really want Hulk back. There must be a way the poor guy can get a podium.

[@f1jones544]

Hulkenberg... Good god. Yep, after a decade of mediocrity, even with a factory team opportunity, the kid just needs his one big break if anyone will just give it to him. Haas will be that one. Lmao

[@diszylam1018]

Would love to see Colton Herta in that seat, I feel like he could pull it off

[@godoftenors]

I think he's pretty much guaranteed for Andretti. O'Ward, however, might be an option, since he's at least been in an F1 car recently.

[@imrandarr1094]

But he’s tied to McLaren so a deal would need to be done.

[@godoftenors]

True, and the Renault engine supplier makes that more complicated, but I could see him being leased with the option for McClaren to call him up, similar to Russell and Mercedes in 2020.

[@carcrazyguysa4059]

This is the time for American companies to step up and support Haas by sponsoring them!

[@Windband1]

Just to really rub it in?? America is the cause of this whole problem.

[@Emerich2]

@@Windband1 no it isn't

[@jeanclaudebertoni6262]

Sad for Haas for sure. But all good Russians I am certain are appalled by Putin's actions.

[@sporadikstyles]

Poor Gunther, just 1 thing to another with this team each season. Drive to Survive will be interesting next year.

[@martint8986]

Itl be the same situation for almost all russian athletes that perform around the world.

[@IronBahamut]

good. Until the Russian people overthrow that tyrant they deserve to suffer

[@pianissimo7121]

I don't know, chess players aren't facing any issues for now

[@martint8986]

@@pianissimo7121 didnt realise chess was athletics 🤔 what your failing to grasp is the source of the money, just about any sports star or high paid persons in foreign countries being paid sponsorship money from Russian based companies will too face the same scrutiny, with sanctions getting tighter, if russia is removed from Swift, how would they pay ANYBODY anything internationally, go clean ur room instead of trying to be something youre not, smart arse.

[@martint8986]

@@IronBahamut i believe the same, anyone that has flourished under his regeim needs a reality check and their finacials looking into deeply, how can the Russian stock market raise 25% after they invade a sovereign nation, whats being done isnt enough, nowhere near close.

[@cocojones959]

@@martint8986 Maybe you should take your own advice. Russia and China have been working on an alternative to Swift for years. What do you think will happen if China decides to switch over? I think some athletes who earn plenty or some sponsorships is the least of our worries...

[@upperjohn117aka]

Haas can’t catch a break

[@salitulauch3731]

I hope other teams can support Haas in those hard times for them 🙏

[@DJKHALED74629]

no chance

[@salitulauch3731]

@@DJKHALED74629 why do you think that? F1 isn't just a competition. it's a community.

[@justinburley8659]

@@salitulauch3731 They didn’t help Haas before, why would they do it now?

[@salitulauch3731]

@@justinburley8659 bc no one in haas is responsible for the loss of UralKali as a Sponsor. it's a political desicion in a sport and that's not too fair.

[@purwantiallan5089]

@@salitulauch3731 or money community like EA SPORTS?

[@JulianThursday13]

I haven't watched the video yet, I'm only a few seconds in. all I got to say is; if a seat for Oscar Piastri opens up, I'm okay with any driver getting sacked.

[@CJB351]

Yeah mate i'm with you on that

[@ParaRail_Nederland]

A very wise decision from Haas. I hope 🤞🏻 that the right sponsor and driver can join the team as soon as possible. So Haas team hasn't any problems.

[@kmisad]

Yeah, what about a driver/sponsor from united arab emirates, or china, where in both cases life is so wonderful!!!

[@Falom]

@@kmisad China and the UAE currently aren't invading another sovereign country though.

[@paradoxinfinity-y2b]

@@Falom haaaa, sure mate.

[@kmisad]

@@Falom Really!!! In which universe are you re living mate? Have you heard of Tibet? Plus, a country, killing its own people it's OK for you....further, you never complained I suppose, Turkey hosting a GP, a country which since 1974 is occupying illegally the north half of Cyprus, a NATO and EU member country. Next time please educate yourself before you reply...

[@CatchMeNever]

I’m rooting for Gio to get that seat if mazepin gets outed

[@nathanschafsnitz8860]

Hulkenback;)

[@PhasicsPvP]

Kevin Magnussen back to replace Mazepin, make it happen!

[@guampedia3598]

As cool as this would be its unlikely. Im pretty sure Kmag said in an interview he doesnt want to come back to F1 unless hes in a title contender car

[@f1jones544]

Why do so many F1 fans like drivers who spend a decade underperforming no matter what equipment they're given, but suggest drivers who dominate only do so because of the car? I've got news; Magnussen (and his dad), Hulkenberg, Grosjean et al are and always have been mediocre, mistake-prone no-hopers. Get over it.

[@guampedia3598]

@@f1jones544 not everyone likes a driver only because of how they perform. That being said though they were definitley not the best, I dont think RoGro and Kmag were the worst either considering what they were given

[@stephenhoward8433]

y would u use someone who isnt even a has been??

[@guampedia3598]

@@stephenhoward8433 wdym?

[@benji928]

So mazepin gets dropped because he's Russian? Listen I'm with everyone else in thinking he's a rich boy with more money then skill and he should be replaced with a better driver but not because he's from a certain county. It's feels like mccarthyism all over again and people seems to be fine with it.

[@mikhaiIs]

his dad is close to putin elites

[@theigpugamer]

I personally am not the biggest fan of Haas or mazepin but it's harsh if they get pulled out through something they had no control over Nikita doesn't deserve this

[@alekspanzone1721]

I find this absolutely ridiculous. It does not matter what Russia does or does not do, Mazepin is not involved in it in any way, shape or from, except being born in Russia and his dad being a high-ranking oligarch. He has no fault to bear and no guild to feel (for this situation at least) and even talking about removing him from the seat is in my opinion foolish and unjust!

[@haroldsmith1531]

It’s because Nikita’s seat is “pay to drive” so if he doesn’t have the money, then he gets booted.

[@OmegaF77]

@@rywmkg Every driver in F1 is a pay driver. You don't get in with talent alone.

[@PetrolHeadBrasil]

Mazepin is a TERRIBLE driver! But I feel sorry for him right now... He have NOTHING to do with that crazy putin and now he will lose his career....

[@jahvyn]

You can bet that if Mazepin's driving ability or social standing were better, there'd be more of a fight to try to keep him and his sponsorship. As it is, it's quite an easy decision to make. Whilst contributing a fifth to an F1 team's budget is in no way insignificant, it's definitely replaceable.

[@Thorwk1]

I hope they give Pietro a chance. It's been a while since a brazilian driver sat on a F1 car.

[@chrisclifford4109]

He's American though

[@Thorwk1]

@@chrisclifford4109 only because he was born in the US. Both his parents are brazilian, he speaks brazilian portuguese, and the oficial F1 transmission put a brazilian flag besides his name for both the Sakhir and Abu Dhabi GP in 2020.

[@gigsawsoljier1408]

@@Thorwk1 yh but that still makes him american.

[@Thorwk1]

@@gigsawsoljier1408 not for the brazilian audience, and apparently not for F1 itself.

[@HatBoyConnie]

update: HAAS has confirmed if Mazapin leaves the team then Fittipaldi will have the seat due to contract reasons.

[@Eric-ws3bv]

I have a lot of respect for Haas removing their main sponsor after the events in Ukraine

[@usernametakenGT7]

Where was you 8 year's ago? The war has been happening for that long. Do your research because your comment is uncalled for. So your saying it was ok last season or the ones before that?

[@racerlord2329]

Well this comment is gonna do down very nicely

[@usernametakenGT7]

@@racerlord2329 yes as an uneducated one.

[@Eric-ws3bv]

@@usernametakenGT7 im not saying that at all stop putting words in my mouth. I guess I SHOULD have said I have regain my respect for Haas. I along with everyone else was very shocked when they introduced their russian livery and sponsors, only recently did I discover that Uralkali is one of the top companies in Putins inner circle. I'm sorry if I offended you. Also the only russian influence in F1 8 years ago was Kyvat and personally I dont think you should shout at a man who is just there to drive. Obviously it is different for Mazapin since his father is involved in the whole ordeal. Again, sorry if I offended you or if the comment came off as uneducated.

[@simptrix007]

Its not about moral stuff. Russian currency is going to be worth nothing pretty soon + Russian banks money transfer bans + traveling visa issues. There is no reason to keep sponsor that couldnt finance you.

[@iouz88]

HAAS driver options: Most deserving: Oscar Piastri / Nyck De Vries Most likely: Pietro Fittipaldi Most competitive: Kevin Magnussen / Nico Hulkenberg

[@camillaquelladegliaggettiv4303]

Perfect balance: Giovinazzi Is relatively experienced, is a decent driver, is great at setup, is cheap as fuck

[@chinchillamaster2639]

@@camillaquelladegliaggettiv4303 Colton Herta from Indycar?

[@camillaquelladegliaggettiv4303]

@@chinchillamaster2639 cool but he doesn't have enough superlicence points and has zero F1 experience. Giovinazzi is a much better stopgap

[@ThatOneDude7]

I don't care what they choose to do as far as the team is concerned with sponsors but dropping Mazepin for simply being russian is low ... even for Haas.

[@loverneverend12]

Next they gonna drop Mick for being related to Nazi

[@dimosk7389]

Mazepin leaving F1 for good... thats probably the only positive thing of this invasion in Ukraine

[@riddlebergerbrothers26]

He really inst that bad yall needa quit that "it's good he left" shit bro

[@WinWin-oo4uk]

It's a liberation Russia is freeing Ukraine from its Neo-Nazi military.

[@SMariaKS]

@@WinWin-oo4uk Get some actual facts before posting. You’ve been listening to Putin.

[@WinWin-oo4uk]

@@SMariaKSBBC, the guardian, even buzzfeednews reported this just Google Image Azov battalion.

[@WinWin-oo4uk]

@@SMariaKS BBC, the guardian, even BuzzFeednews reported this just Google image azov battalion

[@innocentraptor]

Is so hard not to like Haas. My dream would be to see Hulkenberg back on the grid with them, but I know this is unlikely.

[@dahorn100011]

I really don't understand the obsession with Hulkenberg. He was in F1 for 10 uninterrupted years. He had some upper midfield cars and not a single podium. In F1 terms we need a changing of the guard. As the likes of Hamilton, Alonso, Bottas, Vettel retire

[@innocentraptor]

@@dahorn100011 I hear you - it's a valid argument you make and it's hard to disagree that change is good. While your comment is based more on logic - my comment was based more on feelings and sentiment - I just like Hulk and I wish he would get his podium still, I think he deserves it. cheers man!

[@billgatessulit15]

Sebastian Vettel Has Told Everything In The Grand Prix

[@mikehunt368]

hopefully gene stays loyal and sells to andretti… id love to be 40 mins from an f1 headquarters lol and i’m dying to see colton herta in f1

[@godoftenors]

I'm pretty sure Herta will be driving for Andretti in 2024. Maybe Sergeant as a teammate?

[@timbraska6750]

I feel like it's important to say that Mazepins future in F1 is in danger because the future of his sponsor in F1 is in danger and not because he is a Russian. Everything else would just be wrong.

[@oand10]

his future is also in danger because he sucks. His f1 career is in danger because 1: Sponsor 2: Talent nonissue: Russian

[@patrickdixon4945]

No, it's not just that he's Russian and doesn't have the talent, it's also that his dad (who paid for him to get here) is a close mate of Putin.

[@sammerry7706]

Well if his russian citizenship means he cant enter coutries due to blocked visas thats not entirely true.

[@riddlebergerbrothers26]

@@oand10 Simps made a big deal with the situation about the woman even when she said he didn't do anything wrong she switched for attention. It's not rare for girls to do that tbh

[@esdrascaleb]

tbh he deserver this. He thinks his money can buy all...

[@lysdexsick]

It's Not Nikita's Fault at all ! why punishing him for????? Britain invaded Iraque for no reason... should we Ban British drivers then??????

[@Raveendhana]

Goodbye haas

[@jellojoe00]

Haas out, Andretti come on in!!!

[@jeffrykopis5468]

I hope HAAS folds, Andretti buys them, Mazepin never sees a racetrack again, and his oligarch Daddy goes bankrupt!

[@thunderbug8640]

I think projecting onto Mazepin would be unfair. Removal of the sponsors, sure, but I don’t put anything onto Mazepin. Without the money backing him Mazepin should be judged on his performance and not his nationality.

[@IronBahamut]

His father gained success off the back of Putin's despotic regime. His wealth and opportunities to race in F1 stem from this. I have no pity for Mazepin

[@jefferyschmitz3009]

I mean you are correct but his performance has been not good so far - lots of room for improvement

[@dneth19]

ok thank you but nobody cares!

[@pianissimo7121]

@@IronBahamut i don't think that's a fair judgement. If a kid got his school money from his father who is a bank robber, does that mean the kid doesn't deserve education? I agree that Mazapin isn't a kid and isn't as innocent, but that's not for you or me to judge without all the info. Also i don't think he deserves the seat, but maybe removing him without giving his a chance to prove isn't too cool either.

[@cheen0V]

@@pianissimo7121 bad analogy. Robbers kid still deserves education, not in a prestigious private school, but in a free public school. Just like mazepin can race anywhere, but not in f1.

[@Boucle]

The good side of that is we might not longer see Mazepin in F1 anymore, the bad side is that Haas doesn’t have a major sponsor although they could introduce new pilot like Piastri to develop in F1 and attract new sponsors

[@shannonsmith7950]

Well spoken Steiner in the circumstance, however be sad at the decision that decided to choose to shit on their own kid (Mazepin's and many others) development and future whilst taking that away (killing that) from a sovereign kid (Unknown Ukrainian child). I'm sad, and wish peaceful people the love they deserve.

[@Noname98464]

Looks inevitable that mazepin will go… who does everyone want to replace him?

[@Tim_3100]

Piasatri has my vote he's fast and really good should have been in f1 this year

[@eliash8903]

Who I want? Me. Who is likely short term? Fittipaldi

[@Knoe-lp2wl]

Nico hulkenburg

[@Noname98464]

@@Tim_3100 would like to see him in f1 as he should be here anyway but think haas will go with someone with experience.

[@Noname98464]

@@Knoe-lp2wl good shout, think they will go with experience after the double rookie year of last year.

[@lizanoliver2751]

Let’s be honest haas has a special place in all of our hearts

[@f1jones544]

Honestly, I'm American and was listening last week to the news about Andretti's new F1 effort, in which the host reminded me that the Haas team is American too. As he was taking, it didn't occur to me that Andretti would be the second American team until he said that. I don't identify with or feel any connection to this team owned by a former convicted tax dodger whatsoever. So let's be honest; we don't all feel that way.

[@chinchillamaster2639]

@@f1jones544 I am too. Really? I never knew that about HASS. Personally ,I think Andretti should partner with HASSand eventually take the team over and build it up. Just think about it, Schumacher and Colton Herta would be a decent line up and it would make F1 more popular in the States.

[@titanironwolf7986]

Just to update this; there's an article from Sky Sports this afternoon. The International Olympic Committee are calling on ALL international sports to ban entire teams and individuals from Belarus and Russia from their sport cause of the invasion. So Mazepin is totally fucked if FIA does agree

[@xdoctorblindx]

Mazepin losing his seat could be the one good thing come out of Putin's insanity...

[@thevictoryoverhimself7298]

Less than 20 minutes after this video was posted it is confirmed that he and the title sponsor have indeed been dropped.

[@swapnilmankame]

Where was it confirmed or announced? couldn't find the news anywhere.

[@MonkeyWithAKnife]

Just curious, do you have a source for this?

[@Spotter-]

@@MonkeyWithAKnife source: Trust me bro

[@MonkeyWithAKnife]

@@Spotter- The ever present trust me bro of the internet

[@harrytodhunter5078]

I havent seen actual confirmation, ive only seem “rumours” from a wowF1 discord message.

[@NelsonJ79]

Good ridance, lets rid F1 of this jerk. It is unfortunate what is happening in Ukraine right now. But F1 will be better without Mazepin and Ukarili (spelling - not even worth googling).

[@lorcanhalton6748]

Love the livery without Ural Kali

[@princeip0s550]

Just give ownership to Andretti and the seat to Piastri

[@connorfrey8597]

Andretti has got his own driver though

[@davidbrown8517]

Alpine will not let Oscar go.

[@harryfilms0119]

Nikita needs to be looked after man yes he is Russia BUT HE DID NOT START THE WAR,STOP SENDING THREATS

[@geoffjohnston1708]

Unquestionably, HAAS' Russian connections need to be severed as soon as possible to ensure it has capacity to attract other sponsors and shore up its position as a viable F1 team.