Over two years after the start of the Ukraine conflict, the FIA, Formula 1's governing body, continues to maintain a firm stance against Russia.
This is according to Vladimir Chagin, a renowned Russian rally raid driver who also plays a significant role in organising the Silk Way rally in Russia.
Last year, Chagin had to withdraw his team, Kamaz, from the Dakar rally due to the company's involvement in supplying armoured vehicles for Vladimir Putin's military operations.
Chagin states that the FIA, the global authority in motorsport, has not eased its restrictions on Russia.
"The FIA pressure is not decreasing," Chagin told the Tass news agency during the Eastern Economic Forum, which is organised by the Russian government agency Roscongress.
"Our drivers cannot take part in international competitions," he explained. "Russian drivers are required to sign an FIA questionnaire, which states their condemnation of the special military operation, criticism of our president, and support for Ukraine."
He added: "Of course, no Russian will sign such a document. Therefore, we hold our own competitions so that we do not lag behind in development, while we hope that a more favourable time will come soon."
Furthermore, Chagin mentioned: "Also, foreign drivers are not allowed to participate in Russia under the threat of losing their international license."
