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Investigations into Nazi salute from 15-year-old Russian karting champion
The motorsports governing body, the FIA, is investigating a 15-year-old Russian karting champion after he was seen making a Nazi salute on the podium in Portugal
Artem Severiukhin reportedly demonstrated a Nazi salute after accepting his European championship win.
The younger karting driver was seen doing the gesture during the Italian anthem. He thumped his chest twice, then appear to salute, followed by a fit of laughter.
FIA is launching a investigation into the incident where Russian driver Artem Severiukhin (competing under the Italian flag) showed a nazi salute at the World Karting Championship.
— F2.Addict (@AddictF2) April 11, 2022
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The athlete was competing under the Italian flag because of the sanctions placed on Russian athletes, amid the war in Ukraine.
The FIA governing body has launched an immediate investigation into the “unacceptable conduct”.
Severiukhin has since apologised, saying he does not support Nazism in any way.
“Standing on the podium, I depicted a gesture that many perceived as a Nazi greeting. But that’s not true – I have never supported Nazism and consider it one of the most terrible crimes against humanity.”
Artem Severiukhin
“I can’t explain how everything else happened. I know it’s my fault, I know I’m stupid, and I’m ready to be punished. But please understand that I did not support Nazism or fascism with this gesture.”
Artem Severiukhin
Unforgivable mistake
The 15-year-old was given the opportunity to compete under the Italian flag but now his chances are slim as his racing team, Ward Racing, has terminated their contract with him.
“The actions of Artem Severiukhin during the award ceremony on 10 April 2022 were exclusively individual and do not represent the views and values of Ward Racing in any manner.”
Ward racing statement
