Jüri Vips is allowed to finish his Formula 2 season with Hitech, but is on probation – Team principal Oliver Oakes says: “Everyone deserves a second chance “
Despite his expulsion from Red Bull, Jüri Vips will be allowed to finish the Formula 2 season for Hitech. This was announced by the racing team ahead of the upcoming weekend in Silverstone. Vips’ future in the junior series had been unclear after he was shown the door by Red Bull for using a racist term during an online stream.
Hitech, however, is holding on to the Estonian: “I have made the decision to allow Jüri to retain his place at Hitech for the remainder of the season,” team principal Oliver Oakes shared in a statement. “We have had serious discussions about the decision.”
“By allowing him to finish the season with Hitech, he has the chance to demonstrate what kind of person he is by his actions,” says Oakes, who nevertheless made it clear to Vips in the process that the term used was “totally unacceptable”. “Nevertheless, I decided to give him a chance to redeem himself. “
“Hitech employs an inclusive workforce and has never tolerated racism or offensive behaviour in any form. However, if we live in a society where no one can make a mistake, then sincerely apologise, be given the chance to make amends and learn from it – what does that say about society?” continued Oakes.
Statement from Hitech on Jüri Vips’ on-going participation in @Formula2 pic.twitter.com/I7ihECO3V3
– Hitech GP (@HitechGP) June 29, 2022
He also stresses that he does not know why Vips made his statements and why he had to play and stream at that time of the day. “What I do know is that the termination of his contract by Red Bull as a result of his actions is a devastating experience for him, a deserved harsh punishment.”
“The reality is that there is no unanimous opinion on whether this punishment is sufficient, and that is completely understandable.”
In his opinion, apologies and words alone cannot undo the damage, however, Hitech wants to give Vips the chance to show “honest remorse”. “He must now seize every opportunity to do so,” Oakes said. “He needs to bring about lasting change and not just make short-term virtue comments. “
The team boss knows that this decision by his team is unlikely to please everyone. But, “I believe that we all deserve a second chance in life – but never a third,” he clarifies the front lines. “Jüri’s self-respect, his reputation and his career are now firmly in his hands. “
