Russia might not be quick to accept an invitation to rejoin the Formula 1 calendar, even if the sport extended a hypothetical offer.
The Sochi Grand Prix was canceled by Formula 1 in 2022 following the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Alexey Titov, the former Russian GP promoter and current head of Igora Drive circuit in the Leningrad region, which was set to take over as the Russian GP venue in 2023, remarked on Russia's stance.
"It wasn't us who decided to part ways with Formula 1. Formula 1 decided to leave us. So they left," Titov told Sport-Express. "If they were to express a desire to return, then we will think about whether we need them or not. So I wouldn't want to say 'I believe this or that will happen.'"
He emphasized that Igora Drive had been planning for a broader lineup of international events before the F1 departure. "We had an absolutely clear plan for the development of a number of international events at Igora Drive," Titov explained. "Then our colleagues in the West decided that sport is an integral part of political life, and started doing what they are doing.
"We were upset for a day or two, then we got on with our business. The motorsport community in Russia has many, many opportunities to develop."
Despite F1's absence, he says Russian motorsport continues to thrive, with initiatives like SMP Racing's Russian Formula 4 series. Titov pointed out that Igora Drive has kept up with global standards without major international competitions.
"We are not suffering at Igora Drive, either," Titov said. "We buy a lot of foreign equipment for the track - there are no problems. So we are engaged in self-development."
Though he acknowledged that international competitions could enhance interest, he added, "But since they are not there now, we are fuelling the public's interest in other areas."
Reflecting on the situation, Titov said, "I want to note that, even before, Russian motorsport was based not on Formula 1, but on our own characteristics." body check tags ::
