Haas to ditch Russian sponsor branding for final test day in Barcelona

Haas is to run a plain white livery for the final day of pre-season testing at Barcelona's Circuit de Catalunya.

Given Russia's invasion of Ukraine that has been condemned by leaders globally, the team is to ditch the branding of main sponsor Uralkali.

The company is a Russian potash fertiliser producer and exporter owned by oligarch Dmitry Mazepin, father of driver Nikita.

Mazepin Sr has financially supported the team since the start of last season after his son was confirmed as a race driver of the team.

The 53-year-old's involvement led to the team overhauling the livery of its car as it now runs under the white, blue and red colours of the Russian flag.

Given the sensitivities over the war that has broken out, Haas has diplomatically and correctly acted.

A statement read: "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 25 February.

"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."

Team principal Guenther Steiner and Mazepin Jr were due to face the media in different sessions throughout Thursday but both events were cancelled.

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