Other Russian athletes may follow the example of Mazepin, lawyer Antseliovich believes

The example of the Russian racer Nikita Mazepin, who appealed against the EU sanctions, may be followed by other Russian athletes, sports lawyer Anna Antseliovich believes.

On Thursday, the court ruled that Mazepin has the right to enter the EU to negotiate and conclude agreements with a racing team or with sponsors not associated with his father, Dmitry Mazepin, “as a main or reserve driver of Formula 1 or other series held by under the auspices of the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA)”, to participate in races, sponsorships and promotions at the request of its racing team or sponsors, as well as to participate in championships, Grand Prix, races, training sessions, tests in EU Member States.

– Other Russian athletes may well follow the example of Mazepin. Although first you need to study the text of the decision and understand the motives for it. Apparently, in this situation we are talking about the realization of the right to work. That is, Nikita was deprived of the opportunity to perform professional duties: being on the EU sanctions lists did not allow the racer to sign contracts. This situation can really serve as an example for all Russian athletes. They also have the opportunity to challenge the verdicts of their federations, said Antseliovich RT.

Mazepin came under EU sanctions a year ago. He was a driver for the Haas team in the 2021 season and finished 21st in the final standings. In March 2022, it was announced that the team would end their partnership with him.

This season, Mazepin participates in the Asian Le Mans Series.