The intensity of F1 surprised Nikita Mazepin

The brand-new Russian driver had a slightly eventful start to the season. Indeed, it takes some time to adapt, specific to each person, during this transition from F2 to F1, especially when you are driving a Haas which is not the easiest car to handle in the paddock. Mazepin has already made his fair share of mistakes, which has been criticized for his high number of spins and accidents, leading to criticism from his rivals and observers.

During the first Grand Prix of the season in Bahrain, Nikita Mazepin only covered a few meters before crashing his Haas into the wall at the third turn of the circuit. An event that fueled the criticism surrounding him. However, last weekend at the Emilia-Romagna GP, the Russian driver crossed the finish line for the first time. He believes that he is making the necessary progress to get used to Formula 1.

When questioned about this learning process between F2 and F1, he states: « We obviously are both in the same position. So far, F1 has been surprisingly intense for me. I knew it was intense, but the two qualifying sessions I had were quite eventful. And the time is shorter, and there are a lot of things happening. So, yes, it’s a steep learning curve. »

« Formula 1 has been surprisingly intense for me »

It was a race without too much tumult for Nikita Mazepin this Sunday in Imola, despite an incident in the first lap with Nicholas Latifi, after the Williams driver crossed the track right in front of him. However, his Haas did not suffer any damage and he was able to finish this Grand Prix without any mechanical issues. A stroke of luck for the Russian driver, who lacked kilometers behind the wheel of his car to get used to it.

« It is very important to continue learning,” he declared. “Currently, it’s an upward trend. But there is a lot of work to do. It’s a completely different series from what I’m used to driving, and yes, it’s demanding.”

Nikita Mazepin already sees a long future for himself in Formula 1 and therefore does not feel rushed by the sequence of events. Indeed, with his father being the main sponsor of the Haas team, he seems assured of having a seat for some time, especially since the American team greatly needs this investment. As a result, he does not feel pressured to prove himself and therefore wishes to progress gradually but surely.

« I’m pretty sure I’ll spend a few years in this paddock at least, so I won’t start panicking right now,” he said. « There’s a lot more to lose by pushing too hard and hitting walls than by finding a few tenths. It’s a gradual buildup that I need to focus on, and I am doing so.

It is a progressive increase in power

Beyond criticisms and mockery, Nikita Mazepin knows that he must prove his worth and justify his place in the ultimate category that is Formula 1. This seems to be a long process, however, the driver seems determined to evolve. We will therefore be able to observe the results of this potential evolution from the Portuguese Grand Prix from April 30th to May 2nd.