Russian kart driver apologizes in tearful video for Hitler salute and fit of laughter: "Not meant that way"

Created: 04/12/2022Updated: 04/12/2022 11:07 AM

By: Michael Haug

Kart driver Artyom Severyukhin apologizes in tearful video.

© Screenshot Twitter

Kart driver Artyom Severyukhin gave the Hitler salute at an award ceremony.

Now the Russian has spoken up.

Update from April 12, 9.30

a.m .: Far-reaching consequences for Artyom Severyukhin: After the kart driver indicated a Hitler salute and then had a fit of laughter (see initial report below), the Ward Racing team announced that it was separating from the 15-year-old.

Ward Racing condemned "Artyom Severyukhin's personal actions during the award ceremony," the team wrote on social media on Monday evening, speaking of a "manifestation of unsportsmanlike conduct" and an "unacceptable violation of the ethical and moral code of sport."

Therefore, the contract with Severyukhin will be terminated.

Artyom Severyukhin: "Never supported the Nazis"

A day after the incident, the 15-year-old apologized in a Telegram video.

"My name is Artyom Severyukhin and I want to apologize to everyone for my behavior yesterday at the European Karting Championships," said the Russian in a halting voice.

He made a gesture that was wrongly interpreted as a Nazi symbol.

"I never supported the Nazis, it's one of the greatest crimes against humanity," said the kart driver, who was clearly battered.

Severyukhin shows remorse: "I'm ready to be punished"

"The guys in front of the podium made gestures like that, I just wanted to return them," explained the heavily criticized racing driver.

He knew that the action was stupid and was ready to be punished, said the 15-year-old, who then apologized to everyone present.

A decision by the FIA ​​on the case is expected to be made shortly.

Artyom Severyukhin: Kart driver with Hitler salute and laughter at the award ceremony

First report from April 11, 5:15 p.m.:

Portimao – At the “FIA European Championship”, the European Championships in karting, Artyom Severyukhin caused a scandal.

The 15-year-old Russian, who started for Italy because of the imposed sanctions, won the race in Portimao and then misbehaved at the awards ceremony.

Severyukhin slammed his fist on his chest, then gave a clear hint of a Nazi salute or the very similar Roman salute, and burst out laughing.

Kart driver misbehaves: What is the penalty?

The organizer FIA, which also organizes Formula 1, has not yet announced a reaction.

The investigations have already started.

The trophy for the winner of the "FIA European Championship" was actually supposed to be handed over as part of the Formula 1 race.