Russian drivers banned from competing in Britain

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Motorsport UK, the governing body for four-wheel motorsport in the United Kingdom, has announced that competitors holding a Russian licence will not be allowed to compete in any events taking place in Britain.

As the conflict between in Ukraine escalates, with the war raging and Russian troops approaching the country's capital of Kiev, sanctions and restrictions continue to be levied upon Russia.

Motorsport UK's decision, which also applies to Belarusian drivers, supplants the FIA's ruling on Tuesday that allows Russian competitors to enter international events under the condition that they race in a "neutral capacity" and under the governing body's flag.

"The entire Motorsport UK community condemns the acts of war by Russia and Belarus in Ukraine and expresses its solidarity and support towards all those affected by the ongoing conflict," said Motorsport UK chair David Richards.

"We stand united with the people of Ukraine and the motorsport community following the invasion and the unacceptable actions that have unfolded.

"This is a time for the international motorsport community to act and show support for the people of Ukraine and our colleagues at the Federation Automobile d’Ukraine."

Motorsport UK's decision implies that Nikita Mazepin would not be allowed to take part in this year's British Grand Prix, assuming the Russian driver retains his seat with the US outfit, which is currently very uncertain.

Read also: FIA to allow Russian drivers to compete in 'neutral capacity'

But the UK institution's ruling will also have a significant impact on the programmes of many young Russian hopefuls, either racing in the UK's junior categories or in series with race's scheduled in Britain.

"It is our duty to use whatever influence and leverage we might have to bring this wholly unjustified invasion of Ukraine to a halt," Richards added. "

We would encourage the motorsport community and our colleagues around the world to fully embrace the recommendations of the International Olympic Committee and do whatever we can to end this war.

"Motorsport UK stands united with Leonid Kostyuchenko, the President of the FAU, the Ukrainian motorsport community and the Ukrainian people and calls for the violence to end with a peaceful resolution."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.