Here is a gesture that the so-called Artem Severiukhin will surely regret for a long time. This young 15-year-old Russian driver won the race in Portimao (Portugal) this weekend, counting for the European Karting Championship. On the podium, he then expressed his joy hitting his heart twice, then performing what looks like a brief Nazi salute, before laughing in the eyes of all.
A gesture which unfortunately for him was captured before going around social networks, in turn provoking reactions of rejection. The young blond, who competes under the colors of Italy, had just won the first round of the event counting for the European championship, which took place at the Kartódromo Interacional do Algarve, in the OK category.
The International Motorsport Federation was quick to react, confirming that it had opened “an immediate investigation into the unacceptable conduct of Mr. Artem Severiukhin”, as indicated in its press release. “The FIA will communicate the conclusions shortly as well as the additional measures to be taken in this case”, then specifies the document.
Due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the FIA does not allow Russian drivers to compete under their banner. Driving under the Italian flag, it was therefore the Italian anthem that was played during this podium.
Despite its apologies in a video posted on Instagram, and its denial of any Nazi salute, the Ward Racing team decided to break its contract. “Ward Racing sees no possibility of further cooperation with Artem Severiukhin and will proceed with the termination of his racing contract,” she said in a statement.
In Formula 1, Nikita Mazepin, another driver from Russia also suffered disappointments. Ousted by the Haas team even before the start of the season, the young 23-year-old Muscovite paid for his father’s close ties with Vladimir Putin.
