After his dismissal as a reserve driver at the Red Bull Formula 1 team, the Este Jüri Vips was allowed to continue driving for the high-tech racing team in Formula 2 despite his racist derailment – which prompted the management of the racing series to express their astonishment in a statement.
“Today’s decision by Hitech Grand Prix is surprising and would not have been made by us,” said Formula 2 on Wednesday. They will “monitor the situation carefully together to ensure that such behavior is appropriately punished.”
Hitech had previously publicly remained loyal to championship seventh Vips. “Hitech GP employs an inclusive workforce and has never condoned racism or offensive behavior in any form,” the team explained, raising a question: “If we live in a society where no one makes a mistake, then sincerely apologize who given a chance to make amends and learn from it – what does that say about society?”
Vips made a racist remark during a video game live stream last week and apologized shortly thereafter. Red Bull, currently the industry leader in Formula 1, initially suspended its replacement driver, followed by dismissal on Tuesday.
Next weekend, Formula 2 will be making a stop at Silverstone in the UK as a supporting series for Formula 1.
