Vortex in Formula 1: Red Bull throws pilot out after scandal
Created: 06/22/2022Updated: 06/22/2022 13:08
By: Vincent Fischer
A racist incident shakes Formula 1. The replacement driver Jüri Vips is criticized.
Now Red Bull Racing has suspended the pilot.
Milton Keynes - The Formula 1 team Red Bull Racing has suspended replacement driver Jüri Vips with immediate effect because of a racist remark.
The 21-year-old Estonian is said to have become abusive on a social media platform, using the N-word.
Together with friends, including teammate Liam Lawson, Vips had streamed a video game in a live stream.
"Zero tolerance policy": Red Bull Racing condemns incident
"Red Bull Racing has suspended junior driver Jüri Vips from all team duties with immediate effect pending a full investigation into the incident," the team said in a statement.
"As an organization, we condemn all forms of abuse and have a zero tolerance policy for racist language or behavior within our organization."
Juri Vips |
Born: August 10, 2000 in Tallinn (Estonia) |
Racing team: Red Bull Racing |
Greatest success: German Formula 4 Championship 2017 |
As in many other sports, the fight against racism and discrimination is also a top priority in Formula 1.
Under the "We race as one" campaign, the pilots and racing teams set an example together.
Until the current season, there was a kneeling before every race, and a video against racism is also recorded.
Other actions and measures are also part of the campaign.
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The pilot himself apologized in a statement on Instagram.
"I would like to apologize unreservedly for the offensive language I used during a live gaming stream today.
This language is totally unacceptable and does not reflect the values and principles that I uphold," said the 21-year-old.
He also announced that he would fully cooperate with the investigation.
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Vips has mainly been in Formula 2, where he won two of 43 career races.
At the Spanish Grand Prix in May, he made his debut in free practice for a Formula 1 race, replacing regular Mexican driver Sergio Perez.
It was his only mission - and probably his last for the time being.
(vfi/sid)