Russian Time Team Principal Igor Mazepa has passed away, aged just 40.
The Russian died on Monday, with few details on the reason behind his passing.
Mazepa’s brief involvement in top level motor sport was remarkable. Russian Time joined the GP2 paddock in a blaze of glory last season winning the GP2 Teams’ Championship and only just missing out on the drivers title with British driver Sam Bird.
Following on from the teams successes in 2013, the team will expand into GP3 in the forthcoming season and had long term aspirations to move into Formula 1 in the future.
He was also heavily involved in adding GP2 and GP3 to support Formula One as the sport makes its first moves in Russia for the Grand Prix in Sochi later this year.
‘It is with deep sadness that GP2 Series organisers confirm the untimely passing of RUSSIAN TIME’s Team Principal Igor Mazepa earlier this week, a statement from the GP2 Series organisers read.
‘Mazepa who joined the GP2 paddock in 2013 led the Russian’s squad to the crown in their first year. His passion, kindness and enthusiasm will be truly missed.
‘GP2 organisers send their thoughts and condolences to his family and loved ones.’
Following the announcement Bird took to Twitter to say: ‘Goodbye my friend, you will be missed, My thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of my team boss Igor. He gave me a chance and I’ll never forget our season together.’
GP2’s Russian Time team principal dies
