Haas to drop Uralkali livery for final day of F1 test

The decision comes after Russia invaded Ukraine on Thursday morning.

Haas’ title sponsor is Uralkali - a Russian company owned by Nikita Mazepin’s father, Dmitry.

Dmitry Mazepin has close ties to Russia’s president Vladimir Putin, which is also the case with Uralkali company chairman, Sergei Chemezov.

Since the start of last season, Haas’ livery has consisted of the colours of the Russian flag and being named ‘Uralkali Haas F1 team’.

The American outfit will run a plain white livery on day three of the test in Barcelona, with Mazepin expected to remain in the car on Friday morning before handing over to teammate Mick Schumacher.

“Haas F1 Team will present its VF-22 in a plain white livery, minus Uralkali branding, for the third and final day of track running at Circuit de Barcelona–Catalunya on Friday 25th February,” Haas said in a statement. “Nikita Mazepin will drive as planned in the morning session with Mick Schumacher taking over in the afternoon.

“No further comment will be made at this time regarding team partner agreements.”

Due to the ongoing conflicts, doubts have been cast over F1’s race in Sochi later this year.

F1 team bosses are expected to meet with CEO Stefano Domenicali, while four-time champion Sebastian Vettel has been most vocal, expressing his concerns and already ruling himself out of racing in Russia should the grand prix go ahead.

No decision has yet been made about the Russian GP.