Uralkali takes legal action against Haas F1 in the Netherlands

Uralkali, former Haas F1 sponsor, has intensified its legal battle against the team, seeking the confiscation of assets during the Dutch Grand Prix. The Russian company is claiming a $9 million refund that it considers owed following the cancellation of its sponsorship in 2022.

Legal actions in Zandvoort

Uralkali requested the Dutch courts to seize Haas's assets in Zandvoort, including cars and equipment, as a measure to ensure the pending payment. This request was motivated by the lack of reimbursement following the sponsorship cancellation in March 2022.

The local authorities, accompanied by the police, conducted an inventory of the team's assets on Thursday night before the Grand Prix. Although Haas was allowed to compete, they were informed that they could not remove their equipment from the Netherlands until the owed payment is made.

Conflict context

The conflict originated when Haas ended its relationship with Uralkali and driver Nikita Mazepin, son of former Uralkali president Dmitry Mazepin, due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Uralkali is demanding a refund for the sponsorship paid for the 2022 season. A Swiss arbitration tribunal ruled that Haas had to return part of the money received.

Uralkali is determined to use all legal means to secure the refund. For its part, Haas has stated that it is working to fulfill its obligations, ensuring that any payment will comply with international sanctions.