Former Formula 1 driver Mazepin has been refused entry to the UK

The London court refused the Russian runner Nikita Mazepin entering the UK, reports Bloomberg .

As stated in the document, Mazepin wanted to obtain an entry permit ahead of the British Formula 1 Grand Prix, which will be held from July 7-9. The 24-year-old Russian driver hoped to negotiate with the Royal Race teams a possible resumption of his career from the 2024 season, according to him, at any delay, “it would be too late”. Hearings on the full sanctions package against Mazepin in the UK court will not take place until the end of July.

The lawyers said allowing Mazepin in would undermine “the perceived credibility of UK sanctions”. They maintain that nothing prevents Mazepin’s agent from negotiating in the meantime. Hugo Keith, Mazepin’s lawyer, argued that if the teams see that Mazepin is allowed to enter the country, they will understand that they are “not wasting time”, moreover, it is important for them to meet personally the runner to condemn his prospects.

Mazepin in the 2021 season played for the American team Haas in Formula 1, took 21st place in the final standings. In March 2022, it was announced that the team would end their partnership with him. At the same time, the rider was subject to EU sanctions.

In early March, the European Court ruled that Mazepin had the right to enter the EU to negotiate and reach agreements with a racing team or with sponsors not associated with his father, Dmitry Mazepin, “as the main pilot or reserve of Formula 1″ or other series organized under the auspices of the FIA”, to participate in races, sponsorships and promotions at the request of its racing team or its sponsors, as well as to participate in championships, Grands Prix, races, training, tests in EU Member States.