Following the wave of sanctions imposed on Russia in the sporting world, the International Automobile Federation (FIA) announced this Tuesday (1) a package of punishments to pressure the Russians to stop the military campaign against Ukraine.
Among the measures adopted is the ban on holding competitions on Russian or Belarusian soil (a country that was also punished for supporting war actions). The use of flags or the playing of the anthems of these two countries was also prohibited in the automobile events promoted by the entity.
Regarding the participation of teams from Russia and Belarus in FIA events, it has been decided that it is prohibited. Drivers with these nationalities will be able to race, but under the FIA flag.
“The FIA is watching developments in Ukraine with sadness and shock and I look forward to a swift and peaceful resolution to the current situation. We condemn the Russian invasion of Ukraine and our thoughts are with all those suffering as a result of the events in Ukraine. I would like to point out that the FIA, together with our promoters, acted proactively on this matter last week and communicated accordingly with Formula 1, Formula 2, WTCR and the International Drifting Cup.” Mohammed Ben Sulayem.
Sanctions in the world of sport
Russia has suffered a series of punishments in recent days for its military campaign on Ukrainian soil. Last Monday, for example, FIFA and Uefa decided to suspend the Russian national team and all football clubs in the country from participating in any competition organized by them, including the next World Cup, which will be played this year in Qatar.
The executive board of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has recommended that international sports federations ban Russian and Belarusian athletes and authorities from competing in their events.
