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LONDON – Formula One drivers Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen have both spoken out on the events unfolding between Russia and Ukraine
Aston Martin’s Sebastian Vettel claims that he ‘will not go’ compete at this year’s Russian Grand Prix as Red Bull’s Max Verstappen threatens to follow suit, reports the express.co.uk.
As Russian President Vladimir Putin continues to escalate tensions with Ukraine, Formula One are believed to be considering pulling the race from the 2022 calendar.
Russian forces have launched a military assault on Ukraine with thousands attempting to flee the country.
Western leaders have promised action against Putin, who formally recognised the independence of breakaway regions Donetsk and Luhansk earlier this week.
UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson claims that a ‘massive package’ of sanctions will be imposed on Russia as US President Joe Biden states that they will be held to account.
The fallout has also spilled over into the sporting world with this year’s Champions League final pulled from Saint Petersburg although the Russian Grand Prix is still pencilled in for September as it stands.
Amid calls to axe this year’s race at the Sochi Autodrom, Vettel has promised action and Verstappen may not be too far behind.
“For myself, my own opinion is I should not go, I will not go,” said Vettel.
“I think it’s wrong to race in that country.
“I’m sorry for the people, innocent people who are losing their lives, getting killed for stupid reasons.”
Verstappen added: “When a country is at war, it is not right to race there.”
Earlier this week, the UK's Express Sport was told that Formula One sees the race as scheduled for September and they expect it to go ahead as planned.
A Formula One spokesperson said today: “Formula One is closely watching the very fluid developments like many others and, at this time, has no further comment on the race scheduled for September.” – Agencies, February 24, 2022