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FIA lifts Russia restrictions; Lightning McQueen to appear in F1

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 14, 2026, 7:01 PM

Last updated Aug 14, 2026

FIA lifts Russia restrictions; Lightning McQueen to appear in F1

Summary

On August 14, the FIA announced the lifting of restrictions on Russian and Belarusian drivers and teams, allowing them to compete under their national flags in international motorsport events. This decision follows approval by the World Motor Sport Council, though events cannot be hosted in Russia or Belarus at this time. Additionally, Lightning McQueen from Pixar's Cars is set to make an appearance in Formula 1 during the 2026 Italian Grand Prix weekend at Monza, marking a continuation of the partnership between Formula 1 and Disney through the 2028 season. Merchandise related to this collaboration will launch online and at the Monza event later this month.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•FIA allows Russian and Belarusian teams to compete under national flags.
•Restrictions remain on hosting events in Russia and Belarus.
•Lightning McQueen will appear at the 2026 Italian Grand Prix.
•New merchandise will launch online and at Monza during the event.
•The Disney-F1 partnership is extended through 2028.

Latest Updates

7:01 PMYahoo Sports — F1 Today | FIA lifts Russia restrictions as Lightning McQueen heads to Formula 1

What they're saying

"
From the FIA easing restrictions to allow Russian and Belarusian drivers and teams to compete under their national flags again to Lightning McQueen being set for an official Formula 1 appearance, here are the biggest stories from August 14. FIA allows drivers and teams to compete under Russian flagThe FIA has lifted the restrictions previously imposed on Russian and Belarusian participants in international motorsport, following a decision approved by the World Motor Sport Council.
— Yahoo Sports

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