Jan.31 (GMM) Russian racing drivers and groups’ struggles with System 1 governing physique the FIA might lastly be nearing an finish.
It was Haas that ousted Nikita Mazepin and his sponsor Uralkali on the outbreak of the Ukraine disaster three years in the past, however the FIA concurrently imposed restrictions on any drivers or groups in all FIA competitions.
At present, any Russian driver both must voluntarily resign their ties to Russia – like Robert Shwartzman who switched to an Israeli license – or signal a doc condemning Vladimir Putin’s regime and agreeing to race below a impartial flag.
However in keeping with three-time Dakar Rally winner Anton Shibalov, who refused to comply with the FIA’s situations, modifications within the FIA’s perspective might now be afoot.
“As contributors, together with the fellows from Kamaz, we’re prepared to return even tomorrow,” he advised Tass information company.
“I hope that within the coming years this can all stabilise and we can participate once more. However I can’t say when precisely this can occur. It is dependent upon the FIA.
“What I can say for certain is that within the close to future, in February, negotiations on this subject are deliberate. It must be resolved now – the Dakar has ended, and the System 1 season is but to begin. Quickly, the FIA president will probably be a lot much less accessible,” Shibalov added.
The Kamaz-Grasp workforce dominated Dakar for years till the Ukraine disaster. Shibalov says even direct opponents are trying ahead to the Russian workforce’s return.
“This discuss has been occurring for years. I believe they may solely be glad to see us,” stated Shibalov. “As you could have observed, there isn’t a closeness or intrigue within the races now. There was a niche of two.5 hours between first and second place,” he added, referring to the 2025 Dakar.
