“It is not right to race there,” Max Verstappen suggests calling off Russian GP amidst global tensions


“It is not right to race there,” Max Verstappen suggests calling off Russian GP amidst global tensions

Max Verstappen

The global tensions are high following Russia’s attack on Ukraine on 24 February 2022. The attack has raised concerns worldwide and has resulted in panic for all. As the attack was underway in Europe, the F1 drivers were out on the track on the second day of pre-season testing in Barcelona, Spain.

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Russian GP is held in Sochi Autodrom and saw Lewis Hamilton finish P1 and Max Verstappen P2 in the 2021 season. The race was tricky in the end, and as the strategy of McLaren and Lando Norris failed due to the rain, Max Verstappen made big gains and finished P2 after starting at the back of the grid, following an engine change.

The Red Bull driver and 2021 F1 world champion Max Verstappen has shared his stance on whether the Russian GP should be held or not. The driver has said, “When a country is at war, it is not right to race there.”

Sebastian Vettel and F1’s viewpoint on the whole situation

Sebastian Vettel
Sebastian Vettel

The veteran driver and four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel said“For myself, my own opinion is I should not go, I will not go. I think it’s wrong to race in that country. I’m sorry for the people, innocent people who are losing their lives, getting killed for stupid reasons.”

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Max Verstappen shared the sentiments of the legendary ex-Red Bull driver. Sebastian Vettel’s strong words have been applauded by many fans.

On the other hand, F1 is also keeping a close watch on the whole situation. “Formula One is closely watching the very fluid developments like many others and at this time has no further comment on the race scheduled for September,” said an F1 spokesperson, as quoted by the Express.

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