Artem Severiukhin competed under the Italian flag at the time of the incident following sanctions against Russia
Russian karting driver Artem Severiukhin has had his Italian racing license revoked as the fallout continues after the teenager was accused of making a Nazi salute on the podium at a race in Portugal this weekend.
Severiukhin, 15, tapped his chest and then stretched out his arm before bursting out laughing after winning round one of the FIA Karting European Championship in Portimao on Sunday.
The gesture, which was clearly captured on camera, soon spread across the internet as Severiukhin was widely condemned for what appeared to be a fascist gesture.
The teenager himself later issued a tearful video statement in which he admitted that he had been “stupid” but denied that the act supported Nazism.
The Russian has since been fired by Swedish Ward Racing, while the international governing body FIA has initiated an investigation.
In the latest battle against the youth’s career, the Automobile Club d’Italia (ACI), under whose license Severiukhin competed under sanctions against Russia, announced that it took away his credentials while an investigation involving its Sports Council is ongoing.
The Russian Automobile Federation (RAF) has also said it is considering potential measures regarding the young driver.
Severiukhin said in his video statement shared by the RAF on Monday that he was “prepared to be punished”.
“When I stood on the podium, I made a gesture that many perceived as a Nazi salute. But that’s not the case. I have never supported Nazism and consider it one of the worst crimes against humanity,” the teenager said.
“I competed under Italian license and won the race under the Italian flag. And the guys in front of the podium showed me that in Italy it is common in such cases to beat oneself on the chest in the region of the heart, to express gratitude.
“I just wanted to make this gesture. I can not explain how everything else happened.
“I know I’m guilty, I know I’m stupid. And I’m ready to be punished.
“I just ask you to understand me – that in my actions there was no support for Nazism or fascism. There was no desire to offend the drivers, fans, team, viewers of the broadcast. Forgive me, please,” the karting star added.
RAF spokeswoman Maria Melnikova has suggested that Severiukhin’s career could end as a result of the scandal.
(RT.com)
Source: sn.dk