'I won't go', Vettel adamant on Russian Grand Prix

This is the subject that has been on everyone's lips in the Barcelona paddock since this Thursday morning and unfortunately it is extrasporting. As the first tests of the year take place, Russia is in the process of invading Ukraine after launching a major military offensive earlier today.

Astonishment therefore spread to the alleys of the Montmeló track where certain personalities from the paddock did not hesitate to raise the subject and even take part in it. The most striking example is that of Sebastian Vettel. Member of the management of the Grand Prix Drivers' Association (the association of drivers of F1), the four-time world champion answered questions regarding the Russian-Ukrainian conflict. And the least we can say is that he was categorical at a time when the first rumors about a potential cancellation of the Russian Grand Prix are starting to gain momentum.

« We have not discussed this subject within the GPDA so I cannot comment on its behalf, he said at a press conference before giving his personal point of view. I heard the news when I woke up this (Thursday) morning, I am shocked. It’s horrible what’s happening. If you look at our calendar, we have a race planned in Russia. My opinion is that you should not go there. I will not go. I think it is wrong to compete in a race in this country. I feel sorry for the innocent people who are losing their lives, who are being killed for stupid reasons by a very strange and crazy leader. I am convinced that this is a subject that we will discuss but personally I am shocked and sad to see these events. We'll see later but I think my decision is already made »

Russian Grand Prix canceled?

What about the Russian Grand Prix scheduled for September 25 in this whole story? Since the advance of Vladimir Putin's troops on Ukrainian lands, the question of whether Russia will hold its own has inevitably been raised. If in football the Champions League final scheduled for Saint Petersburg will be relocated by UEFA, this is not the case for the Russian GP for the moment.

« Like many, Formula 1 is closely monitoring the latest developments in real time and has currently no comments to make on the race scheduled for September. We will continue to monitor the situation very carefully.,” only indicated F1 in a press release sent to the various media suggesting that the decision concerning the Russian Grand Prix would not come immediately. In the event of cancellation, Turkey and Spain with the Jérez circuit could position themselves to take over the date left vacant by Russia.

Haas, whose main sponsor is none other than Uralkali, a Russian group specializing in the production and sale of potash, has still not reacted to the situation. The “American” team which displays the colors of Russia on the livery of its VF22 has canceled its participation in the press conference planned between the two test sessions this Thursday in Barcelona.

If sport has often been used to convey political messages, F1 has still not made a real decision regarding the arrival of the paddock in Sochi next September. Be careful not to wait too long because she could lose big, very big, in this story.

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