“Following the recent incident involving Juri Vips, F2 would like to reaffirm that the use of racist or discriminatory language cannot be tolerated in any environment,” said a statement from the championship.
“Hitech Grand Prix’s decision today is surprising and not one we would have taken. We will monitor the situation carefully with them to ensure that such behaviour is properly addressed.”
Prior to the incident, Vips has already had an up and down season. Currently seventh in the championship, the Estonian spun out of the race after claiming pole in Imola, and also crashed in the Baku whilst leading.
His F2 team has now given him the chance to climb back up the order and rebuild his career.
“Hitech GP employs an inclusive work force and has never condoned racism or offensive behaviour in any forms,” Oakes’ statement continued.
“That said, if we live in a society where no one can make a mistake, then genuinely apologise, have the chance for redemption and learn from it – what does it say about the society?
“I don’t know why he said what he said. I don’t know why he was playing and streaming C.O.D [Call of Duty] at that time of day. Certainly, there are things that would have been far more beneficial for his career!
“What I do know is that having his contract terminated by Red Bull as a result of his actions is a crushing experience for him, a deservedly severe punishment. The reality is there will not be unanimous agreement whether that punishment is sufficient, and that is totally understandable.”