Formula 1 Becomes Second Sporting Organization to Withdraw From Russia

Sports

Formula 1 has followed UEFA in removing its scheduled 2022 Russia event that was set for Sunday, September 25, at the Sochi Autodrom.

Formula 1 put out a statement saying, “On Thursday evening Formula 1, the FIA, and the teams discussed the position of our sport, and the conclusion is, including the view of all relevant stakeholders, that it is impossible to hold the Russian Grand Prix in the current circumstances.”

🚨 BREAKING: F1 won’t race in Russia following the Ukraine invasion 🚨

Stating it is "impossible to hold the Russian Grand Prix in the current circumstances." #F1 #Autosport pic.twitter.com/9vGGeV18tB

— Autosport (@autosport) February 25, 2022

The statement also spoke about the uniting nature of the sport and their sadness at the current situation in Ukraine: “The FIA Formula 1 World Championship visits countries all over the world with a positive vision to unite people, bringing nations together. We are watching the developments in Ukraine with sadness and shock and hope for a swift and peaceful resolution to the present situation.”

Russia is now feeling further effects of not just diplomatic and economic sanctions but also effects from the withdrawal of major sporting organizations, which may have impacts for many months or potentially even years to come.