Russian drivers and groups may quickly see a shift of their potential to compete in FIA-sanctioned motorsport, as negotiations between the governing physique and Russian representatives are set to happen in February.
Russian drivers and groups may quickly see a shift of their potential to compete in FIA-sanctioned motorsport, as negotiations between the governing physique and Russian representatives are set to happen in February.
Following the outbreak of the Ukraine disaster in 2022, the FIA imposed strict restrictions on Russian drivers and groups throughout all its competitions.
Haas notably dropped Nikita Mazepin and his sponsor Uralkali at the moment, whereas the FIA dominated that Russian drivers should both resign their ties to Russia—comparable to Robert Shwartzman, who switched to an Israeli license—or signal a doc condemning Vladimir Putin’s regime whereas racing underneath a impartial flag.
Nevertheless, three-time Dakar Rally winner Anton Shibalov, who refused to signal the FIA’s declaration, now suggests a change within the governing physique’s stance could also be underway.
“As members, together with the fellows from Kamaz, we’re prepared to return even tomorrow,” Shibalov instructed Tass information company.
“I hope that within the coming years this may all stabilise and we can participate once more.
“However I can not say when precisely this may occur. It depends upon the FIA.
What I can say for positive is that within the close to future, in February, negotiations on this subject are deliberate,” he added.
“It must be resolved now – the Dakar has ended, and the Formulation 1 season is but to begin. Quickly, the FIA president shall be a lot much less accessible.”
The Kamaz-Grasp staff, which dominated the Dakar Rally for years, has been absent from the occasion for the reason that sanctions took impact. Shibalov believes that their return can be welcomed, even by direct rivals.
“This discuss has been happening for years. I feel they are going to solely be glad to see us,” he stated. “As you will have observed, there isn’t a closeness or intrigue within the races now. There was a spot of two.5 hours between first and second place,” he added, referring to the 2025 Dakar.
