Nikita Mazepin’s controversial time in Formula One has come to an end – for now at least.

The 23-year-old Russian has lost his drive at Haas just over two weeks before the new season begins in Bahrain.

Mazepin’s downfall has come because of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine that started last month. Haas has decided to completely cut ties with the Russian and Uralkali.

Uralkali is a company run by Mazepin’s father, Dmitry. Mazepin Sr. is a Russian oligarch and has close links to Putin; he was photographed as recently as January with the Russian President.

The American-owned team had already removed Uralkali branding from their car for the final day of testing in Barcelona last Friday, as well as removing the word from their social media channels and press releases.

Mazepin's time in Formula 1 was far from impressive as he was comprehensively beaten by Mick Schumacher, especially in qualifying. He was also involved in a number of questionable pieces of driving last year. 

The big winner could be Pietro Fittipaldi, Haas’ test and/or reserve driver since 2019. The 25-year-old Brazilian may get his first opportunity to test his new 2022 machinery next week in Bahrain.

As well as stepping in for Romain Grosjean at Haas in the final two races in 2020 because of the Frenchman’s horrific accident at the Bahrain Grand Prix, Fittipaldi has also appeared in select IndyCar races across 2020 and 2021.

The Brazilian took part in the Indy 500 last year, where he finished 25th.

“Haas F1 Team has elected to terminate, with immediate effect, the title partnership of Uralkali, and the driver contract of Nikita Mazepin,” Haas said in a statement.

“As with the rest of the Formula 1 community, the team is shocked and saddened by the invasion of Ukraine and wishes for a swift and peaceful end to the conflict.”

TEAM STATEMENT #HaasF1 pic.twitter.com/5aEXLzYtmV

— Haas F1 Team (@HaasF1Team) March 5, 2022