Nikita Mazepin, a Russian ex-System One driver, is preventing British authorities sanctions imposed following the invasion of Ukraine in a bid to resurrect his racing profession.
Nikita Mazepin was dropped final March by his crew Haas, which additionally severed ties with its title sponsor Uralkali URKAI.MM, a Russian fertiliser producer then managed by his father, Belarus-born oligarch Dmitry Mazepin.
Each had been later sanctioned by Britain, Canada, and the European Union, who described Dmitry Mazepin as “a member of the closest circle” of Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Nikita Mazepin, 24, is now attempting to overturn the British sanctions so he can negotiate with System One groups to return to the game in 2024.
Britain imposed an asset freeze and journey ban on Mazepin, which his legal professionals informed London’s Excessive Court docket on Wednesday was stopping him from negotiating with groups.
His lawyer Rachel Scott stated Mazepin needed his problem heard as a matter of “urgency” due to the necessity to develop a relationship with crew employees earlier than the 2024 season if he’s supplied a contract.
Mazepin can also be difficult EU and Canadian sanctions as a part of his try and return to System One.
In a witness assertion, he stated that “even when — or whereas — the Canadian sanctions stay in place, there may be no less than a prospect of me having the ability to enter into negotiations to return to System One if sanctions are lifted in each the EU and UK.”
Nonetheless, legal professionals representing Britain’s Overseas Workplace argued that Mazepin may nonetheless negotiate with F1 groups whereas the sanctions are in place.
One other listening to is anticipated to happen in June to determine whether or not sanctions will be quickly lifted pending Mazepin’s full problem, which shall be heard in July.