As the conflict between Russia and Ukraine continues to unfold, its impact on sports has been felt greatly.
Formula 1 cuts ties with Grand Prix
Formula 1 has officially terminated its contract with the Russian Grand Prix. Known as the nucleus of the Formula 1 calendar year, the infamous race has now been rendered impossible following the invasion of Ukraine.
This year’s race in Sochi, where President Putin resides, has already been canceled. Following the news, as will the race in St Petersburg, Putin’s hometown, that was due to have in 2023.
Vladimir Putin was integral in establishing the event in 2014.
Paralympics banned for Russia, Belarus
Also, a day after IPC allowed them to compete, the Russian and Belarusian athletes are not to compete at this year’s Paralympics.
The sanction takes place on a mere day prior to the games following threats of boycotts by other teams over Russia’s invasion of Ukraine
Belarus, which was a key staging area for the full-scale invasion, is to compete in further games at neutral territories.
The Paralympics start Friday, concluding next Sunday, March 13th.
Abramovich to sell Chelsea; speculation implicates Russia invasion tie-in
Ahead of Chelsea’s gutsy FA cup win, Roman Abramovich, long-time owner of the club, announces he is to sell the team.
Speaking to the press, the 55-year-old is said to donate all net profits from the sale to a charitable foundation that would benefit the “victims of the war in Ukraine”. As it was speculated was a move due to incoming sanctions, Abramovich, downplayed his links to Putin, with no mention of Russia or their president.
Abramovich spent 19 years with the organization, overseeing a collection of 19 major trophies in that span.
