Formula 1 has a reputation as a sport that favors the wealthy. However, the trend of drivers buying their way into teams has decreased over time. Russian driver Nikita Mazepin was an exception to this trend in recent years, but his opportunity was short-lived due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Despite being dismissed earlier, Mazepin did not lose hope, and now, at the age of 25, he is preparing for a comeback in Formula 1 with a new team.
Mazepin’s career in Formula 1 was not particularly successful. He participated in every Grand Prix in 2021 but failed to earn any points, finishing 14th in the standings behind his teammate. His only notable achievement during the eventful season was setting the fastest lap at the Belgian Grand Prix, a race that was canceled due to severe weather conditions.
At the beginning of the 2022 season, the former Haas driver was dismissed following his home country’s invasion of Ukraine, causing outrage within the racing community. As a result, Russian drivers and athletes were banned from competing on the international stage, seemingly closing the door for Mazepin’s return to Formula 1 in the near future.
However, assuming the role of team principal at Alpine, there is a close connection between the 36-year-old and [Name of person], who, as reported by Auto Motor und Sport, may acquire the French team. On the other hand, Mazepin’s father is an investor in Hitech GP, which could provide an unconventional path for his son to reenter Formula 1.
After being dismissed by Haas following pre-season testing, the 25-year-old remained inactive in the world of motorsport due to the ban. However, he did not stay away from participating in events for long, as he embarked on his journey in endurance racing.
Mazepin began competing in the LMP2 category in the Asian Le Mans series. He achieved two victories in the 2023-24 season and finished fourth in the driver’s standings. Currently, he has shifted his focus to GT3 racing and can often be seen testing various types of vehicles around the world.
While it is not uncommon for drivers to secure a place in Formula 1 with the support of their father’s investments, Mazepin’s return may bring additional criticism to the Enstone-based team. Consequently, Alpine seems to be facing uncertainty amidst rumors of the team’s potential closure.
Photo from Nikita Mazepin (X)
