According to a report by JN, after winning the first race of the European Karting Championship in the OK-Junior category (from 11 to 15 years old), Severiukhin (who was not allowed to race under the Russian flag) gave a fascist salute, on the podium, while the Italian anthem was heard.

"The FIA ​​confirms that it has initiated an immediate investigation into the unacceptable conduct of Mr Artem Severiukhin during the OK category podium ceremony of the first stage of the 2022 European Karting Championship at Kartódromo Internacional do Algarve. The FIA ​​will communicate the next steps in this case soon", reads the statement from the body that governs motor sport.

Also in a statement, the Ward Racing team reported the "rescission of the racing contract" with Severiukhin, for "not seeing the possibility of continuing with the current cooperation", while apologising to all those who felt offended or distressed by what happened.

"Ward Racing is deeply ashamed of the driver's behaviour, which we condemn in the strongest possible way [...]. His actions were personal and in no way represent Ward Racing's vision and values. Ward Racing supports the international community in condemning Russia's invasion of Ukraine", reads the message from the Swedish team.