Haas rookie Nikita Mazepin‘s latest on-track controversy “isn’t going to be tolerated” by the FIA, the governing body of world motorsport says.
But the FIA has revealed that Mazepin, who has compiled a weighty off-track shame file, isn’t necessarily of greater concern than the rest of the grid, following his blocking move on Yuki Tsunoda of AlphaTauri during the Russian Grand Prix.
Mazepin was shown the black-and-white flag for blocking Tsunoda when the Japanese driver attempted, with the use of DRS, to overtake him through turn 12 of the Sochi circuit.
Mazepin swerved to his left, forcing Tsunoda to brake suddenly so he wouldn’t crash into a wall.
“What the f–k!” a furious Tsunoda said on radio.
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FIA Formula 1 race director Michael Masi has revealed his take on Mazepin’s move and his growing on-track rap sheet.
“It’s one of those things that we’ve seen a few times and we’ve issued black-and-whites for before. It’s unsportsmanlike conduct and it’s not something we’re going to tolerate,” Masi told The Race.
“He’s probably had a few stewards’ visits, but I think if you went through and had a look at it all there are probably other drivers that are up there, or have had more.
“I wouldn’t suggest there is anything untoward or a concern.”
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While Mazepin was only warned for his blocking move on Tsunoda, the Russian youngster copped four penalties over the first 15 rounds of this year’s world championship.
His well-documented feud with Haas teammate Mick Schumacher hit its climax when he received a five-second penalty and a point on his license for causing a collision at the Italian Grand Prix.
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“We look at and investigate each incident on its own merits,” Masi said.
“If it is worth investigating obviously the stewards will investigate it, and they have a look at it based on the evidence that is before them and then deem if a penalty is or isn’t necessary.
“We judge incidents based on what occurs. Someone’s particular driving style? I would suggest we have got 20 different driving styles, subtly, out there.”
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