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.
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.
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.