Mazepin 'feeling at home' on Haas first day

Haas rookie Nikita Mazepin has said he is 'feeling at home' with his new team after spending his first day at the factory.

Mazepin will make his Formula 1 debut at the pre-season test that will take place between March 12-14 at the Bahrain International Circuit.

Making his first appearance in the factory on Wednesday, Mazepin has undergone his seat fitting as the team ramps up its preparations for the coming campaign.

The arrival of Mazepin at Haas was viewed by many as a controversial decision due to his tag of being a 'pay driver', but further questions as to his suitability were raised after his infamous groping incident ahead of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

The hashtag 'We say no to Mazepin' remains prevalent on every social media post shared with regard to the 21-year-old Russian.

First day at @haasf1team. Feeling home ?? #NM9 pic.twitter.com/DAuNeToINW

— Nikita Mazepin (@nikita_mazepin) February 17, 2021

Haas will field an all-rookie driver pairing this year, with Mazepin joined at the team by Mick Schumacher, the son of seven-time world champion Michael.

Whilst Mazepin ended 2020 fifth in the F2 standings, Schumacher follows in the footsteps of Charles Leclerc, George Russell and Lewis Hamilton after gaining promotion to F1 as the reigning junior series champion.

‘Tis the season to be seated! #HaasF1 pic.twitter.com/9GuZnwAfQW

— Haas F1 Team (@HaasF1Team) February 17, 2021