FIA bans Russian flag -not drivers- from all sanctioned events

In light of the Russia-Ukraine crisis, the International Olympic Commission (IOC), FIFA, and several other sporting bodies have banned Russian athletes from participating in competitions. Fortunately for race car drivers, the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) has taken a lighter approach on the matter.

Instead of banning Russian and Belarusian drivers from outright competing, the FIA says drivers from both countries may continue racing under a “neutral FIA flag”. That means Formula 1 driver Nikita Mazepin, who currently races for HAAS, can race for the upcoming 2022 season.

There is more to the story, though. The FIA announcement further adds that no international competition will take place in Russia and Belarus for the time being. Teams competing in FIA sanctioned competitions will not be allowed to display the Russian/Belarusian colors, flags, or symbols on their uniform, equipment, and cars.

“As you know, the FIA is watching the developments in Ukraine with sadness and shock and I hope for a swift and peaceful resolution to the present situation. We condemn the Russian invasion of Ukraine and our thoughts are with all those suffering as a result of the events in Ukraine. I would like to stress that the FIA, together with our promoters, proactively acted on this matter last week and communicated accordingly on the Formula 1, Formula 2, WTCR, and the International Drifting Cup,” said FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem.

Last week, Formula 1 organizers officially announced that the Russian Grand Prix is canceled the day following the invasion. Subsequently, the Haas Formula 1 team also removed all Uralkali sponsorships and the Russian colors from their vehicles, opting for black and white colors. 

“We stand in solidarity with Leonid Kostyuchenko, the President of the Federation Automobile d’Ukraine (FAU) and the wider FIA family in the country. The measures taken today recognize the authority of the FAU in Ukraine and are also aligned with the recommendations recently made by the International Olympic Committee,” adds the FIA president.

What do you think of the FIA’s decision regarding Russian drivers in comparison to the IOC and others? Let us know in the comments below.