Former Formula 1 driver Nikita Mazepin, who was expelled from the sport early in 2022, now has "plans" following the reopening of his access to Europe.

Just two weeks ago, sanctions placed on the 25-year-old for years, due to his father's connections to Vladimir Putin, were finally lifted. This now enables the Russian to travel freely across Europe once again.

According to Tass news agency, Switzerland has also now removed its sanctions against Mazepin. The driver was originally dismissed by Haas at the onset of the 2022 Ukraine-Russia conflict.

"I am certainly happy about this news," Mazepin said.

"The fight lasted a very long time, and one can say that justice has prevailed. I can announce that this week Switzerland also removed me from its sanctions list. This is a big victory for me."

"I will definitely tell you about my future plans, but a little later," he added.