F1 News: Nikita Mazepin Wants In - "I Could Make A Comeback
Nikita Mazepin, the Russian driver, was ousted from Formula 1 and its Haas team when Russia invaded Ukraine. Since then, he's been battling to get back into the sport, despite his poor performance with the American team.
In a recent development, a judge tossed out Mazepin's plea to gain entry into the UK to discuss with teams the possibility of a 2024 comeback. This comes as a considerable setback for the 24-year-old driver who is eager to climb back into the cockpit.
Queried by Russian broadcaster Match TV about his aspirations to return to the world of F1 racing, Mazepin responded:
“It’s a tough question. I can tell you straight-up what I desire, but we live in the real world.”
It's important to note that Mazepin and his father Dmitry, his key supporter, have been caught up in the crossfire of Western sanctions directed at the Russian regime and Vladimir Putin. And therefore, while the Russian driver yearns to get back on the track and makes a point of his prime physical condition, he recognizes that if a return to Formula 1 is not on the horizon, life has other joys to offer.
He continued:
"I could make a comeback. But if that's not the cards, I've got plenty else that brings me joy. At my age, with good health and fitness, I'm not setting limits for myself. Life should be limitless, providing something to strive for.”
Of course, even if Mazepin is allowed to return to F1, it's highly unlikely any team would take him following his poor performance alongside Mick Schumacher.