Mazepin: My dad could turn an F1 team into gold

Nikita Mazepin has suggested that if his father Dmitry bought a Formula 1 team, he would turn it into “gold” like his other businesses.

Haas brought Mazepin jnr into their team for 2021 as part of an all-rookie line-up alongsideMick Schumacher, and with it came a big sponsorship package from Dmitry’s Uralkali company.

There have long since been rumours though that Mazepin senior would look to increase his Formula 1 presence by buying a team outright, perhaps even Haas.

Nikita says all of his father’s projects have succeeded, therefore hinting a Formula 1 venture would be no different.

“That would be an interesting option for him. He made gold out of everything he started,” Nikita toldSport Bild.

“But I am very loyal to Haas. So if he were to buy a team it would be exciting to see how they duel, and hopefully beat him.”

So does that mean he would not join a team owned by his father?

Nikita explained that is not definitely the case, considering Haas are comfortably propping up the Formula 1 standings, but reaffirmed his loyalty to the team.

“I wouldn’t rule it out,” he replied when asked if he would join a team owned by his dad.

“I’m currently part of a team that is 10th out of 10 places in the Constructors’ Championship. But I said I am loyal. I want success with Haas.”

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Since he brought a strong budget with him into Formula 1, it led to the inevitable scrutiny for Mazepin as he works to prove he should be in Formula 1 on merit.

He certainly believes he has earned his place on the grid though, rather than securing a seat simplythrough money.

“I have my place because I’m a racing driver and the team see me as an asset,” Mazepin stated.

“The reason for the sponsorship is the company sees Formula 1 as an opportunity for new business. I’m the only Russian driver and of course a Russian company will always want to invest in a team that has a fellow countryman.”

Interestingly, Mazepin is still studying alongside competing in Formula 1 and so he says his “life will only really start after Formula 1”, at which point he hopes to work his way to the top in a corporate sense.

“Despite the motorsport, my father never let me finish school. I am currently the only driver who is still studying on the side,” Mazepin revealed.

“我完成了我的学士学位,现在我要start my master. My life will only really start after Formula 1. I am confident that one day you will see me head a great company.”

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