Russia Launches Military Operation In Ukraine, Sebastian Vettel Rejects F1 Racing In Vladimir Putin's Country

JAKARTA – Four-time Formula One (F1) champion Sebastian Vettel is reluctant to race at the Russian Grand Prix in September after the country launched a military operation into Ukraine on the morning of Thursday, February 24.

The war broke out after the Russian president, Vladimir Putin authorized military operations in Ukraine, and from 24 hours Russian troops were even able to approach the city of Kyiv. Vettel said it was terrible to see what the Russians were doing.

"I woke up to the news this morning, shocked. I thought it was terrible to see what happened. Obviously, if you look at the calendar we have a race scheduled in Russia (on September 25)," Vettel said, quoted by AP.

"My own opinion is I shouldn't go, I won't go. I think racing in that country is wrong. I'm sorry for the innocent people who lost their lives, who were killed (for) stupid reasons and very strange leadership. and crazy," he continued.

Vettel, who is chairman of the Grand Prix Drivers' Association, said that so far they had not discussed the issue of Russia attacking Ukraine. However, he made sure there must be talk about it.

"But personally I'm shocked and saddened by what happened. So we'll see what happens next, but I think my decision has been made," said Vettel.

Meanwhile, last season's F1 world champion Max Verstappen agreed with Vettel. However, he did not say that he would withdraw from the race in Russia.

"I think when a country goes to war it's not right to race there, that's for sure. But it's not just what I think, the whole paddock (ie) will decide what we're going to do next," he said.

Apart from Vettel and Verstappen, two-time F1 champion Fernando Alonso also spoke up. However, the Spaniard took a wiser attitude.

"We can definitely make our own decisions, but in the end I think Formula One (F1) will do the best thing," said Alonso.

Ada F1 said in a statement that it was watching closely the very current developments. However, they did not comment further on whether the race in Sochi would be cancelled. The plan is that F1 team leaders plan to meet on Thursday night to discuss the situation.

"My hope is that somehow everything will stop soon. We will have a meeting between us tonight, try to understand and how to deal with it," said Ferrari team principal Mattia Binotto.