Nazi salute on the podium in Portugal. After winning his first round race at the European Championship, the teen proceeded to make the controversial gesture, before he burst into laughter.He has since posted a video message on the Russian Automobile Federation’s Telegram channel acknowledging the error of his ways. “I would like to apologise for what happened yesterday at the European Karting Championship,” he said.“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.” The 15-year-old insisted the celebration was perceived in the wrong way and he simply wanted to express his gratitude after winning his race.“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.”The FIA is investigating the incident, while Severiukhin’s team Ward Racing, have sacked him.
Their statement read: “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. “On the contrary, Ward Racing stands with the international community condemning Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and expresses its solidarity with the people suffering because of this unprovoked and horrific attack.
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