Nikita Mazepin, previously dismissed by the Haas Formula 1 team in early 2022, is currently in the midst of a legal battle against his former employers. The Russian driver’s move to seek justice follows a successful challenge against political sanctions in the European Court of Justice, as mentioned by former F1 personality Oksana Kosachenko. Kosachenko advocated for Mazepin to now pursue a lawsuit for wrongful dismissal, highlighting a potential path for redress.
In a conversation with the Russian media outlet RBC, Mazepin disclosed that his lawsuit against both Haas and its former principal, Gunther Steiner, has been in progress for two years. “The trial continues,” Mazepin shared, emphasizing that this legal action is distinct from his European Union court victory. “The (Haas) case has already been considered in arbitration,” he added, noting, “and we are waiting for a decision, which, I hope, will be made soon.”
Despite the complexities of his situation, Mazepin is optimistic about his prospects of making a return to the Formula 1 grid, buoyed by the recent legal developments in the EU. He acknowledges the difficulties inherent in entering and re-entering the sport, reflecting, “It’s hard to get there, and even harder to get back.” Mazepin remains hopeful, however, stating, “But when we first started suing, almost no one believed in our success. Therefore, no matter how absurd and funny it may sound now, I believe that my return to Formula 1 is possible. But first, we need to achieve the implementation of the court decision. And that’s not as simple as it seems.”
Mazepin looks forward to a future where he can compete on equal footing with his peers, free from the constraints that have sidelined him. “I hope that it doesn’t take long and that I will have exactly the same rights to enter countries as any other driver,” he concluded, signaling his intention to overcome the challenges ahead and reclaim his position in the competitive world of Formula 1.
GMM
