World number one Ash Barty on Thursday withdrew from the Indian Wells and the Miami Open tennis tournaments, saying her body has not recovered after her January triumph at the Australian Open.

The 25-year-old Australian has struggled with shoulder, back and foot injuries during her career, in which she has won three different Grand Slam events.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-cricket-star-rod-marsh-dies-at-74-458769">Australian cricket star Rod Marsh dies at 74</a>

"Unfortunately, my body has not recovered the way I'd hoped after the Australian Open and I have not been able to adequately prepare for Indian Wells and Miami," she wrote in a message on Twitter.

"I don't believe I am at the level necessary to win these events and as a result I have decided to withdraw from both tournaments," she said.

"I love these events and am sad not to be there competing but getting my body right must be my focus."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/strong-stance-on-china-and-peng-shuai-helps-land-wta-a-new-title-sponsor-458683">Strong stance on China and Peng Shuai helps land WTA a new title sponsor</a>

Barty's opponent in the Australian Open final, top-ranked American Danielle Collins, also withdrew from Indian Wells on Thursday, citing a "continuing injury".

The Indian Wells main draw begins next week with the Miami Open following at the end of the month.

World number one Ash Barty on Thursday withdrew from the Indian Wells and the Miami Open tennis tournaments, saying her body has not recovered after her January triumph at the Australian Open.

World number one Ash Barty on Thursday withdrew from the Indian Wells and the Miami Open tennis tournaments, saying her body has not recovered after her January triumph at the Australian Open. The 25-year-old Australian has struggled with shoulder, back and foot injuries during her career, in which she has won three different Grand Slam events. ALSO READ: Australian cricket star Rod Marsh dies at 74 "Unfortunately, my body has not recovered the way I'd hoped after the Australian Open and I have not been able to adequately prepare for Indian Wells and Miami," she wrote in a message on Twitter. "I don't believe I am at the level necessary to win these events and as a result I have decided to withdraw from both tournaments," she said. "I love these events and am sad not to be there competing but getting my body right must be my focus." ALSO READ: Strong stance on China and Peng Shuai helps land WTA a new title sponsor Barty's opponent in the Australian Open final, top-ranked American Danielle Collins, also withdrew from Indian Wells on Thursday, citing a "continuing injury". The Indian Wells main draw begins next week with the Miami Open following at the end of the month.

World No. 1 Ashleigh Barty pulls out of Indian Wells, Miami Open

Virat Kohli, on Friday (March 04), became the 12th Indian to enter the 100-Test club when Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. locked horns with Sri Lanka in the two-match series opener, in Mohali. Coming out to bat at No. 4, Kohli made his 100th Test more special by becoming the sixth Indian to enter the 8,000-run club in the purest format of the game (32nd overall).

The 33-year-old former captain Kohli&nbsp;joined the likes of&nbsp;Sachin Tendulkar&nbsp;(15921),&nbsp;Rahul Dravid&nbsp;(13265), Sunil Gavaskar (10122), VVS Laxman (8781) and Virender Sehwag (8503) in the elite list. Moreover, he is also the fifth-fastest to the milestone among Indian batsmen.

Fastest Indian players to 8000 Test runs - by innings: 

154 - Sachin Tendulkar

158 - Rahul Dravid

160 - Virender Sehwag

166 - Sunil Gavaskar

169 - Virat Kohli*

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohlis-100th-test-rahul-dravid-felicitates-ex-captain-ahead-of-series-opener-vs-sri-lanka-watch-458817">Virat Kohli's 100th Test: Rahul Dravid felicitates ex-captain ahead of series opener vs Sri Lanka - WATCH</a>

Kohli came out to bat when India were 80-2, after opting to bat first, and stitched a handy 90-run partnership for the third wicket with Hanuma Vihari (58). Eventually, the right-hander fell for 45 and once again failed to end his century-drought at the highest level (since late 2019).&nbsp;

Before the start of the&nbsp;Test series opener, head coach Rahul Dravid felicitated Kohli ahead of his 100th Test appearance in Mohali. In a video shared by BCCI, Dravid told, "When you started out as a kid you must have wanted to play one Test for India, you stand here on the cusp of your 100th. It’s a testament to everything that is great in our sport... sweat, discipline, courage, skill, determination, desire, focus, you had it all. You had a great journey. You can be very proud of not only playing the 100th Test match but also for the great journey that you have navigated through."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gavaskar-lauds-virat-kohli-for-entering-100-test-club-compares-him-with-pakistans-iconic-player-watch-458831">Gavaskar lauds Virat Kohli for entering 100-Test club, compares him with Pakistan's iconic player - WATCH</a>

“Congratulations to you and your family on this fantastic achievement. It is well deserved, it is well earned… hopefully it is just the start of many more bigger things to come and as we say in the dressing room, ‘double it up’," he added.

Virat Kohli, on Friday (March 04), became the 12th Indian to enter the 100-Test club when Rohit Sharma & Co. locked horns with Sri Lanka in the two-match series opener, in Mohali.

Virat Kohli, on Friday (March 04), became the 12th Indian to enter the 100-Test club when Rohit Sharma & Co. locked horns with Sri Lanka in the two-match series opener, in Mohali. Coming out to bat at No. 4, Kohli made his 100th Test more special by becoming the sixth Indian to enter the 8,000-run club in the purest format of the game (32nd overall). The 33-year-old former captain Kohli joined the likes of Sachin Tendulkar (15921), Rahul Dravid (13265), Sunil Gavaskar (10122), VVS Laxman (8781) and Virender Sehwag (8503) in the elite list. Moreover, he is also the fifth-fastest to the milestone among Indian batsmen. Fastest Indian players to 8000 Test runs - by innings: 154 - Sachin Tendulkar 158 - Rahul Dravid 160 - Virender Sehwag 166 - Sunil Gavaskar 169 - Virat Kohli* ALSO READ | Virat Kohli's 100th Test: Rahul Dravid felicitates ex-captain ahead of series opener vs Sri Lanka - WATCH Kohli came out to bat when India were 80-2, after opting to bat first, and stitched a handy 90-run partnership for the third wicket with Hanuma Vihari (58). Eventually, the right-hander fell for 45 and once again failed to end his century-drought at the highest level (since late 2019). Before the start of the Test series opener, head coach Rahul Dravid felicitated Kohli ahead of his 100th Test appearance in Mohali. In a video shared by BCCI, Dravid told, "When you started out as a kid you must have wanted to play one Test for India, you stand here on the cusp of your 100th. It’s a testament to everything that is great in our sport... sweat, discipline, courage, skill, determination, desire, focus, you had it all. You had a great journey. You can be very proud of not only playing the 100th Test match but also for the great journey that you have navigated through." ALSO READ | Gavaskar lauds Virat Kohli for entering 100-Test club, compares him with Pakistan's iconic player - WATCH “Congratulations to you and your family on this fantastic achievement. It is well deserved, it is well earned… hopefully it is just the start of many more bigger things to come and as we say in the dressing room, ‘double it up’," he added.

Kohli adds another feather in illustrious hat during 100th Test, becomes 6th Indian to enter 8,000-run club

On Friday (March 04), Virat Kohli added another feather to his illustrious hat by entering the elite 100-Test club as India took on Sri Lanka on Day 1 of the first Test. Among Indians, the 33-year-old ex-captain has become the 12th Test player to enter the elusive club. The right-hander, thus, joined a special list of Indians, comprising Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, Sunil Gavaskar, VVS Laxman, Kapil Dev, Anil Kumble, Dilip Vengsarkar, Sourav Ganguly, Virender Sehwag, Harbhajan Singh and Ishant Sharma to have played 100, or more, matches in whites.

Ahead of Kohli's special feat, Little Master Gavaskar lavished huge praise on the former skipper&nbsp;for his achievements and compared him with an iconic Pakistani cricketer.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohlis-100th-test-rahul-dravid-felicitates-ex-captain-ahead-of-1st-test-vs-sri-lanka-watch-458817">Virat Kohli's 100th Test: Rahul Dravid felicitates ex-captain ahead of series opener vs Sri Lanka - WATCH</a>

Talking to&nbsp;BCCI.TV, Gavaskar said, "Playing 100 Tests for your country is an incredible feeling, all of us when we were kids playing in the compounds of our house, we dream of playing for India. After playing for the country and you come to your 100th Test, it is an incredible feeling. Reaching the 100th Test means you have played for the country very successfully. No career will be smooth, there will be highs and lows."

"To provoke a fast bowler takes something else. Kohli is one of the rare batters who likes to sledge bowlers. He has been different, he likes to get under their skin. He is like Javed Miandad in that sense. His progress has been phenomenal, the consistency with which he has played, the 100th Test and beyond should be more of the same," pointed out the&nbsp;ex-Indian skipper.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/virat-kohli-set-to-play-100th-test-reliving-former-indian-captains-impressive-run-in-whites-458253">Virat Kohli set to play 100th Test: Reliving former Indian captain's impressive run in whites</a>

Kohli has had a memorable run in the purest format of the game. He averages over 50 and has scored 27 hundreds and 28 half-centuries. He has also completed 8,000 Test runs during his 100th outing in the ongoing two-match series opener versus Sri Lanka, being held in Mohali. Needless to say, Kohli will like to make the most of his special Test with a big score and end his century-drought with the bat.

On Friday (March 04), Virat Kohli added another feather to his illustrious hat by entering the elite 100-Test club as India took on Sri Lanka on Day 1 of the first Test.

On Friday (March 04), Virat Kohli added another feather to his illustrious hat by entering the elite 100-Test club as India took on Sri Lanka on Day 1 of the first Test. Among Indians, the 33-year-old ex-captain has become the 12th Test player to enter the elusive club. The right-hander, thus, joined a special list of Indians, comprising Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, Sunil Gavaskar, VVS Laxman, Kapil Dev, Anil Kumble, Dilip Vengsarkar, Sourav Ganguly, Virender Sehwag, Harbhajan Singh and Ishant Sharma to have played 100, or more, matches in whites. Ahead of Kohli's special feat, Little Master Gavaskar lavished huge praise on the former skipper for his achievements and compared him with an iconic Pakistani cricketer. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli's 100th Test: Rahul Dravid felicitates ex-captain ahead of series opener vs Sri Lanka - WATCH Talking to BCCI.TV, Gavaskar said, "Playing 100 Tests for your country is an incredible feeling, all of us when we were kids playing in the compounds of our house, we dream of playing for India. After playing for the country and you come to your 100th Test, it is an incredible feeling. Reaching the 100th Test means you have played for the country very successfully. No career will be smooth, there will be highs and lows." "To provoke a fast bowler takes something else. Kohli is one of the rare batters who likes to sledge bowlers. He has been different, he likes to get under their skin. He is like Javed Miandad in that sense. His progress has been phenomenal, the consistency with which he has played, the 100th Test and beyond should be more of the same," pointed out the ex-Indian skipper. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli set to play 100th Test: Reliving former Indian captain's impressive run in whites Kohli has had a memorable run in the purest format of the game. He averages over 50 and has scored 27 hundreds and 28 half-centuries. He has also completed 8,000 Test runs during his 100th outing in the ongoing two-match series opener versus Sri Lanka, being held in Mohali. Needless to say, Kohli will like to make the most of his special Test with a big score and end his century-drought with the bat.

Gavaskar lauds Virat Kohli for entering 100-Test club, compares him with Pakistan's iconic player - WATCH

Having braved bombs and gunfire, Ukraine's athletes have made it safely to Beijing ahead of the Winter Paralympics that begin on Friday, in what Ukrainian paralympic committee president Valeriy Sushkevych described as a miracle.

Ukraine has been under siege following an invasion by Russia, which prompted the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) on Thursday to ban Russian and Belarusian athletes from the Games after earlier allowing them to compete as neutrals.

Belarus has been a key staging area for the invasion.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/belarus-clubs-and-national-team-banned-from-playing-at-home-in-uefa-competitions-amid-ukraine-crisis-458664">Belarus clubs and national team banned from playing at home in UEFA competitions amid Ukraine crisis</a>

"Not coming here would have been taking the easy option... Our presence at the Paralympics is not merely a presence, this is a sign that Ukraine is and will remain a country," Sushkevych told reporters on Thursday.

The enormous challenge to get to Beijing meant that Sushkevych, a member of Ukraine's parliament, had to sleep on the floor of a bus for two days, while other members of the delegation escaped missiles to get out of the country.

"More than four days and four nights we (took to) come here," he added.

"It's a miracle that we're here... A part of our team was already abroad. A part of our team was in Ukraine. All the necessary equipment was in Ukraine... We had to unite all those parts," he said.

"It is 25 years I am president of the national paralympic committee of the Ukraine. And never was it so difficult, so heavy to come to the Paralympic Games."

Ukraine have been a formidable presence at the Winter Games in the past, bagging 22 medals including seven golds in Pyeongchang four years ago.

The country's 20-strong contingent, accompanied by nine guides, will feature in the biathlon and cross-country skiing, with some athletes already hitting the slopes in Zhangjiakou ahead of the two events.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-russian-grand-prix-in-future-as-formula-one-terminates-contract-in-wake-of-ukraine-crisis-458595">No Russian Grand Prix in future as Formula One terminates contract in wake of Ukraine crisis</a>

Asked whether the team would be able to go home at the end of the Games given the situation in Ukraine, Sushkevych said he wasn't sure.

"I don't know... going back home is not simple. I hope the international community takes a real step during the Paralympics to stop this war."

Having braved bombs and gunfire, Ukraine's athletes have made it safely to Beijing ahead of the Winter Paralympics that begin on Friday, in what Ukrainian paralympic committee president Valeriy Sushkevych described as a miracle.

Having braved bombs and gunfire, Ukraine's athletes have made it safely to Beijing ahead of the Winter Paralympics that begin on Friday, in what Ukrainian paralympic committee president Valeriy Sushkevych described as a miracle. Ukraine has been under siege following an invasion by Russia, which prompted the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) on Thursday to ban Russian and Belarusian athletes from the Games after earlier allowing them to compete as neutrals. Belarus has been a key staging area for the invasion. ALSO READ: Belarus clubs and national team banned from playing at home in UEFA competitions amid Ukraine crisis "Not coming here would have been taking the easy option... Our presence at the Paralympics is not merely a presence, this is a sign that Ukraine is and will remain a country," Sushkevych told reporters on Thursday. The enormous challenge to get to Beijing meant that Sushkevych, a member of Ukraine's parliament, had to sleep on the floor of a bus for two days, while other members of the delegation escaped missiles to get out of the country. "More than four days and four nights we (took to) come here," he added. "It's a miracle that we're here... A part of our team was already abroad. A part of our team was in Ukraine. All the necessary equipment was in Ukraine... We had to unite all those parts," he said. "It is 25 years I am president of the national paralympic committee of the Ukraine. And never was it so difficult, so heavy to come to the Paralympic Games." Ukraine have been a formidable presence at the Winter Games in the past, bagging 22 medals including seven golds in Pyeongchang four years ago. The country's 20-strong contingent, accompanied by nine guides, will feature in the biathlon and cross-country skiing, with some athletes already hitting the slopes in Zhangjiakou ahead of the two events. ALSO READ: No Russian Grand Prix in future as Formula One terminates contract in wake of Ukraine crisis Asked whether the team would be able to go home at the end of the Games given the situation in Ukraine, Sushkevych said he wasn't sure. "I don't know... going back home is not simple. I hope the international community takes a real step during the Paralympics to stop this war."

'It's a miracle that we're here': Ukraine team arrives safely in Beijing ahead of Winter Paralympics

India wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik praised Rohit Sharma and said that a cricketing country like India needs one captain.

Rohit Sharma was recently appointed India's all-format captain after Virat Kohli decided to step down from his leadership role of the Test side.

Rohit's first assignment in the longest format as the skipper will come against Sri Lanka, in a two-match Test series, starting March 4.

"A cricketing country like India needs one captain," Karthik said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/great-moment-for-indian-cricket-ganguly-shares-special-message-for-kohli-ahead-of-his-100th-test-watch-458617">Great moment for Indian cricket: Ganguly shares special message for Kohli ahead of his 100th Test - WATCH</a>

"It is very easy to deal with one captain for all three formats. I remember MS Dhoni saying that split captaincy doesn't work in India that well. We haven't had that over a period of time, so we wouldn't know. But at this point in time when I do see it, I think he (Rohit) is the man. Every time he touched something, it's turned to gold. All the series he has been a part of, he has won convincingly," said Dinesh Karthik on ICC show, The ICC Review.

Karthik also praised the way Rohit has used India's bowlers and his handling of young players.

India have recently completed 3-0 series sweeps in T20Is against New Zealand, West Indies and Sri Lanka.

"He has shown a lot of tactical nous in the games that he has played. Moved the bowlers around really well, giving confidence to the batters and when they've won a series, giving opportunities to the young guys. Sometimes taking a backseat, batting in a position where obviously he has not batted there for a long time. So, he is doing a lot of things right."

Under Rohit's leadership, India has also integrated a few young players in the limited-overs formats. The likes of Deepak Hooda, Avesh Khan, Venkatesh Iyer and Ravi Bishnoi have all recently made their debuts for India.

"The good thing is, there have been 2-3 debutants in his captaincy and all have done well. And that doesn't happen always. It's great to see that happening and he is somebody who is a people's person. He understands failures well. So it is very nice that he is taking the team forward."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-made-everyone-love-test-cricket-irfan-pathan-on-virat-kohli-ahead-of-his-historic-outing-in-whites-458618">'He made everyone love Test cricket': Irfan Pathan on Virat Kohli ahead of his historic outing in whites</a>

Karthik has played alongside Rohit for a long time in internationals, as well as franchise cricket, and revealed that foresight and clarity were the two qualities that stood out about his leadership.

Revealing anecdotes about his leadership, Karthik said: "Just as an example, the way he chooses to take DRS. The way he speaks to people and then he makes the decisions. It's very interesting the way he has always thought."

India wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik praised Rohit Sharma and said that a cricketing country like India needs one captain. Rohit Sharma was recently appointed India's all-format captain after Virat Kohli decided to step down from his leadership role of the Test side.

India wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik praised Rohit Sharma and said that a cricketing country like India needs one captain. Rohit Sharma was recently appointed India's all-format captain after Virat Kohli decided to step down from his leadership role of the Test side. Rohit's first assignment in the longest format as the skipper will come against Sri Lanka, in a two-match Test series, starting March 4. "A cricketing country like India needs one captain," Karthik said. ALSO READ: Great moment for Indian cricket: Ganguly shares special message for Kohli ahead of his 100th Test - WATCH "It is very easy to deal with one captain for all three formats. I remember MS Dhoni saying that split captaincy doesn't work in India that well. We haven't had that over a period of time, so we wouldn't know. But at this point in time when I do see it, I think he (Rohit) is the man. Every time he touched something, it's turned to gold. All the series he has been a part of, he has won convincingly," said Dinesh Karthik on ICC show, The ICC Review. Karthik also praised the way Rohit has used India's bowlers and his handling of young players. India have recently completed 3-0 series sweeps in T20Is against New Zealand, West Indies and Sri Lanka. "He has shown a lot of tactical nous in the games that he has played. Moved the bowlers around really well, giving confidence to the batters and when they've won a series, giving opportunities to the young guys. Sometimes taking a backseat, batting in a position where obviously he has not batted there for a long time. So, he is doing a lot of things right." Under Rohit's leadership, India has also integrated a few young players in the limited-overs formats. The likes of Deepak Hooda, Avesh Khan, Venkatesh Iyer and Ravi Bishnoi have all recently made their debuts for India. "The good thing is, there have been 2-3 debutants in his captaincy and all have done well. And that doesn't happen always. It's great to see that happening and he is somebody who is a people's person. He understands failures well. So it is very nice that he is taking the team forward." ALSO READ: 'He made everyone love Test cricket': Irfan Pathan on Virat Kohli ahead of his historic outing in whites Karthik has played alongside Rohit for a long time in internationals, as well as franchise cricket, and revealed that foresight and clarity were the two qualities that stood out about his leadership. Revealing anecdotes about his leadership, Karthik said: "Just as an example, the way he chooses to take DRS. The way he speaks to people and then he makes the decisions. It's very interesting the way he has always thought."

He has foresight, clarity of thought: Dinesh Karthik on Rohit Sharma ahead of Hitman's Test captaincy debut

Belarusian clubs and the national team will have to play all their home matches in UEFA competitions at neutral venues with no spectators allowed, European soccer's governing body announced on Thursday.

Belarus has been used as a key staging post for Russia's invasion of Ukraine, drawing widespread condemnation.

"The UEFA Executive Committee met today and decided that all Belarusian clubs and national teams competing in UEFA competitions will be required to play their home matches at neutral venues with immediate effect," a statement read.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/biennial-world-cup-is-a-no-go-for-everyone-in-football-says-uefa-president-aleksander-ceferin-458610">Biennial World Cup is a 'no go' for everyone in football, says UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin</a>

"Furthermore, no spectators shall attend matches in which the teams from Belarus feature as host."

UEFA said its Executive Committee would convene further extraordinary meetings, on a regular ongoing basis, to reassess the legal and factual situation as it evolves and adopt further decisions as necessary.

World governing body FIFA and UEFA have already suspended Russia's national teams and clubs from international football until further notice as a result of the invasion.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-captains-to-wear-special-armbands-in-ukrainian-colours-to-show-support-458536">Premier League: Captains to wear special armbands in Ukrainian colours to show support</a>

Earlier on Thursday Russian and Belarusian athletes were barred from the Winter Paralympics in Beijing on the eve of the Games following threats of boycotts by other teams.

Belarusian clubs and the national team will have to play all their home matches in UEFA competitions at neutral venues with no spectators allowed, European soccer's governing body announced on Thursday.

Belarusian clubs and the national team will have to play all their home matches in UEFA competitions at neutral venues with no spectators allowed, European soccer's governing body announced on Thursday. Belarus has been used as a key staging post for Russia's invasion of Ukraine, drawing widespread condemnation. "The UEFA Executive Committee met today and decided that all Belarusian clubs and national teams competing in UEFA competitions will be required to play their home matches at neutral venues with immediate effect," a statement read. ALSO READ: Biennial World Cup is a 'no go' for everyone in football, says UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin "Furthermore, no spectators shall attend matches in which the teams from Belarus feature as host." UEFA said its Executive Committee would convene further extraordinary meetings, on a regular ongoing basis, to reassess the legal and factual situation as it evolves and adopt further decisions as necessary. World governing body FIFA and UEFA have already suspended Russia's national teams and clubs from international football until further notice as a result of the invasion. ALSO READ: Premier League: Captains to wear special armbands in Ukrainian colours to show support Earlier on Thursday Russian and Belarusian athletes were barred from the Winter Paralympics in Beijing on the eve of the Games following threats of boycotts by other teams.

Belarus clubs and national team banned from playing at home in UEFA competitions amid Ukraine crisis

British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe, linked with a possible purchase of Chelsea Football Club, is not interested in buying the team from Russian owner Roman Abramovich, a spokesman for his company INEOS told Reuters on Thursday.

British media reports had said that Ratcliffe was considering a bid for Chelsea but the spokesman told Reuters: "There is no substance to the stories."

Abramovich said on Wednesday he would sell Chelsea Football Club, 19 years after buying the Premier League team, amid calls in Britain for sanctions against him following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/roman-abramovich-wants-to-get-rid-of-chelsea-so-he-offered-to-sell-it-says-swiss-billionaire-hansjorg-wyss-458199">Roman Abramovich wants to get rid of Chelsea so he offered to sell it, says Swiss billionaire Hansjorg Wyss</a>

Ratcliffe, chairman of chemical company INEOS, currently owns French club OGC Nice and the INEOS Grenadiers cycling team, has been linked with Chelsea in the past.

"Right now his focus is on OGC Nice which made it to the final of the French Cup to be played in Paris at the beginning of May," said the spokesperson.

Abramovich's decision to put Chelsea up for sale offers a rare chance to purchase a top Premier League club but soccer industry experts suggest it may not be a straightforward sale.

Forbes magazine valued Chelsea at $3.2 billion and ranked them the seventh most valuable club in the world but below English rivals Manchester United, Liverpool and Manchester City.

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In December, Chelsea announced losses of £145.6 million. They made a profit of £39.5 million the previous year after losses of £102 million in the 2019-20 season.

Chelsea's most recent accounts said they are “reliant on Fordstam Limited for its continued financial support”.

Fordstam is the entity through which Abramovich owns Chelsea and through which he has loaned the club £1.5 billion.

In his statement on Wednesday, the Russian said: "The sale of the Club will not be fast-tracked but will follow due process. I will not be asking for any loans to be repaid".

But the sale may not be a straightforward matter says Rob Wilson, football finance expert at Sheffield Hallam University.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/everton-suspends-all-commercial-sponsorships-with-russian-companies-with-immediate-effect-458227">Everton suspends all commercial sponsorships with Russian companies with immediate effect</a>

"The complexity of the ownership of the club, the soft loans provided by the current owners, ongoing losses and commitments to player contracts mean that any sale of Chelsea is unlikely to be plain sailing," he told Reuters.

"The write off, or not, of the £1.5bn in loans to Abramovich is the biggest point of contention. Will that really be written off? Converted to equity or bought as part of the acquisition. All questions that need to be answered," he said.

There has been increasing interest in the Premier League from American investors with both Manchester United and Liverpool owned by U.S backers but one U.S based soccer investment source said simply "It depends on the price".

On Wednesday, Swiss business tycoon Hansjoerg Wyss said he was one of three people who had been approached by Abramovich to buy the club.

"Abramovich is currently trying to sell all his villas in England. He also wants to get rid of Chelsea quickly now. I, along with three other people, received an offer on Tuesday to buy Chelsea from Abramovich," Wyss told Swiss newspaper Blick.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lokomotiv-moscow-coach-markus-gisdol-steps-down-in-protest-against-russian-invasion-457866">Lokomotiv Moscow coach Markus Gisdol steps down in protest against Russian invasion</a>

Wyss said he would not consider purchasing Chelsea alone.

"If I buy Chelsea, it will be with a consortium of six or seven investors," he said.

Reports have suggested that American Todd Boehly, co-owner of the LA Dodgers baseball team, could be part of such a consortium.

Boehly, is founder and CEO of Eldridge Industries and was reported to have made an attempt to buy Chelsea in 2019.

Eldridge did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe, linked with a possible purchase of Chelsea Football Club, is not interested in buying the team from Russian owner Roman Abramovich, a spokesman for his company INEOS told Reuters on Thursday.

British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe, linked with a possible purchase of Chelsea Football Club, is not interested in buying the team from Russian owner Roman Abramovich, a spokesman for his company INEOS told Reuters on Thursday. British media reports had said that Ratcliffe was considering a bid for Chelsea but the spokesman told Reuters: "There is no substance to the stories." Abramovich said on Wednesday he would sell Chelsea Football Club, 19 years after buying the Premier League team, amid calls in Britain for sanctions against him following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. ALSO READ: Roman Abramovich wants to get rid of Chelsea so he offered to sell it, says Swiss billionaire Hansjorg Wyss Ratcliffe, chairman of chemical company INEOS, currently owns French club OGC Nice and the INEOS Grenadiers cycling team, has been linked with Chelsea in the past. "Right now his focus is on OGC Nice which made it to the final of the French Cup to be played in Paris at the beginning of May," said the spokesperson. Abramovich's decision to put Chelsea up for sale offers a rare chance to purchase a top Premier League club but soccer industry experts suggest it may not be a straightforward sale. Forbes magazine valued Chelsea at $3.2 billion and ranked them the seventh most valuable club in the world but below English rivals Manchester United, Liverpool and Manchester City. ALSO READ: Asian Champions League: Saudi Arabia set to host group matches In December, Chelsea announced losses of £145.6 million. They made a profit of £39.5 million the previous year after losses of £102 million in the 2019-20 season. Chelsea's most recent accounts said they are “reliant on Fordstam Limited for its continued financial support”. Fordstam is the entity through which Abramovich owns Chelsea and through which he has loaned the club £1.5 billion. In his statement on Wednesday, the Russian said: "The sale of the Club will not be fast-tracked but will follow due process. I will not be asking for any loans to be repaid". But the sale may not be a straightforward matter says Rob Wilson, football finance expert at Sheffield Hallam University. ALSO READ: Everton suspends all commercial sponsorships with Russian companies with immediate effect "The complexity of the ownership of the club, the soft loans provided by the current owners, ongoing losses and commitments to player contracts mean that any sale of Chelsea is unlikely to be plain sailing," he told Reuters. "The write off, or not, of the £1.5bn in loans to Abramovich is the biggest point of contention. Will that really be written off? Converted to equity or bought as part of the acquisition. All questions that need to be answered," he said. There has been increasing interest in the Premier League from American investors with both Manchester United and Liverpool owned by U.S backers but one U.S based soccer investment source said simply "It depends on the price". On Wednesday, Swiss business tycoon Hansjoerg Wyss said he was one of three people who had been approached by Abramovich to buy the club. "Abramovich is currently trying to sell all his villas in England. He also wants to get rid of Chelsea quickly now. I, along with three other people, received an offer on Tuesday to buy Chelsea from Abramovich," Wyss told Swiss newspaper Blick. ALSO READ: Lokomotiv Moscow coach Markus Gisdol steps down in protest against Russian invasion Wyss said he would not consider purchasing Chelsea alone. "If I buy Chelsea, it will be with a consortium of six or seven investors," he said. Reports have suggested that American Todd Boehly, co-owner of the LA Dodgers baseball team, could be part of such a consortium. Boehly, is founder and CEO of Eldridge Industries and was reported to have made an attempt to buy Chelsea in 2019. Eldridge did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe not interested in bidding for Chelsea, says spokesman

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin said that plans to hold a biennial World Cup are a "no go" for everyone in football, adding that FIFA has also come to the same realisation.

The idea of a World Cup every two years has been gathering steam with FIFA president Gianni Infantino trying to get support from national federations, saying the switch would create an extra $4.4 billion in revenues for the world body.

Infantino insisted in December that he had majority backing to make the change despite opposition from European clubs and top leagues, and contrary to what the president of the continent's governing body believes.

"A biennial World Cup is a no go for everyone in football," Ceferin told the Financial Times Football Business Summit. "I am glad FIFA has realised that as well."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-russian-grand-prix-in-future-as-formula-one-terminates-contract-in-wake-of-ukraine-crisis-458595">No Russian Grand Prix in future as Formula One terminates contract in wake of Ukraine crisis</a>

I had a discussion with FIFA's president about it yesterday. We cannot say football on other continents cannot be developed, but we should be aligned and it should not hurt European and South American Federations.

"We have discussions but as far as I am concerned, a biennial World Cup is off the table. I am sure we will come to a solution with FIFA soon."

FIFA did not immediately comment when approached by Reuters.

Ceferin also launched a fresh attack on attempts to form a European Super League, given what is going on in Ukraine at the moment.

Media reports suggest the breakaway, which spectacularly failed to get off the ground last April, could come back, with Real Madrid, Barcelona and Juventus still interested in forming the league.

"First they launch this nonsense of an idea in the middle of the pandemic, now we are reading articles every day that they are planning to launch another idea now, in the middle of a war," Ceferin added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/f1-world-champion-max-verstappen-to-stay-at-red-bull-until-2028-458577">F1 world champion Max Verstappen to stay at Red Bull until 2028</a>

"Do I have to speak anymore about those people? They obviously live in a parallel world. While we are saving players with other stakeholders, while we are working to help a terrible situation, they work on a project like that."

"They can pay whoever they want to say this is a nice project, that they have full solidarity, that they will give some charity to smaller clubs, but this a complete nonsense. They all know it."

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin said that plans to hold a biennial World Cup are a "no go" for everyone in football, adding that FIFA has also come to the same realisation.

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin said that plans to hold a biennial World Cup are a "no go" for everyone in football, adding that FIFA has also come to the same realisation. The idea of a World Cup every two years has been gathering steam with FIFA president Gianni Infantino trying to get support from national federations, saying the switch would create an extra $4.4 billion in revenues for the world body. Infantino insisted in December that he had majority backing to make the change despite opposition from European clubs and top leagues, and contrary to what the president of the continent's governing body believes. "A biennial World Cup is a no go for everyone in football," Ceferin told the Financial Times Football Business Summit. "I am glad FIFA has realised that as well." ALSO READ: No Russian Grand Prix in future as Formula One terminates contract in wake of Ukraine crisis I had a discussion with FIFA's president about it yesterday. We cannot say football on other continents cannot be developed, but we should be aligned and it should not hurt European and South American Federations. "We have discussions but as far as I am concerned, a biennial World Cup is off the table. I am sure we will come to a solution with FIFA soon." FIFA did not immediately comment when approached by Reuters. Ceferin also launched a fresh attack on attempts to form a European Super League, given what is going on in Ukraine at the moment. Media reports suggest the breakaway, which spectacularly failed to get off the ground last April, could come back, with Real Madrid, Barcelona and Juventus still interested in forming the league. "First they launch this nonsense of an idea in the middle of the pandemic, now we are reading articles every day that they are planning to launch another idea now, in the middle of a war," Ceferin added. ALSO READ: F1 world champion Max Verstappen to stay at Red Bull until 2028 "Do I have to speak anymore about those people? They obviously live in a parallel world. While we are saving players with other stakeholders, while we are working to help a terrible situation, they work on a project like that." "They can pay whoever they want to say this is a nice project, that they have full solidarity, that they will give some charity to smaller clubs, but this a complete nonsense. They all know it."

Biennial World Cup is a 'no go' for everyone in football, says UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan on Thursday congratulated Virat Kohli ahead of his 100th test appearance, saying that he made everyone fall in love with the longest format all over again.

"Test cricket was limping and that's when it found a magical physio in Virat Kohli. He came, He conquered and He made everyone love test cricket all over again! Congratulations @imVkohlion your remarkable achievement," tweeted Irfan.

Kohli's 100th Test match will not be played behind closed doors.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-sri-lanka-virat-kohli-reflects-on-his-journey-ahead-of-historic-100th-test-watch-458601">India vs Sri Lanka: Virat Kohli reflects on his journey ahead of historic 100th Test - WATCH</a>

India will play the first of the two-match Test series against Sri Lanka in Mohali.

The second Test match will be played at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

The former India skipper will now join the company of legendary players like Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, VVS Laxman, Anil Kumble, Kapil Dev, Sunil Gavaskar etc who represented the country in 100 Tests or more.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rahane-and-pujara-played-a-huge-part-in-india-becoming-no-1-in-tests-says-captain-rohit-sharma-458590">Rahane and Pujara played a huge part in India becoming No. 1 in Tests, says captain Rohit Sharma</a>

Kohli will be playing his 100th Test match under the captaincy of Rohit Sharma who will be leading India for the first time in Test matches.

Kohli has amassed 7,962 runs in 99 Tests at an average of 50.39 with 27 tons to his name.

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan on Thursday congratulated Virat Kohli ahead of his 100th test appearance, saying that he made everyone fall in love with the longest format all over again.

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan on Thursday congratulated Virat Kohli ahead of his 100th test appearance, saying that he made everyone fall in love with the longest format all over again. "Test cricket was limping and that's when it found a magical physio in Virat Kohli. He came, He conquered and He made everyone love test cricket all over again! Congratulations @imVkohlion your remarkable achievement," tweeted Irfan. Kohli's 100th Test match will not be played behind closed doors. ALSO READ: India vs Sri Lanka: Virat Kohli reflects on his journey ahead of historic 100th Test - WATCH India will play the first of the two-match Test series against Sri Lanka in Mohali. The second Test match will be played at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. The former India skipper will now join the company of legendary players like Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, VVS Laxman, Anil Kumble, Kapil Dev, Sunil Gavaskar etc who represented the country in 100 Tests or more. ALSO READ: Rahane and Pujara played a huge part in India becoming No. 1 in Tests, says captain Rohit Sharma Kohli will be playing his 100th Test match under the captaincy of Rohit Sharma who will be leading India for the first time in Test matches. Kohli has amassed 7,962 runs in 99 Tests at an average of 50.39 with 27 tons to his name.

'He made everyone love Test cricket': Irfan Pathan on Virat Kohli ahead of his historic outing in whites

Virat Kohli will become the 12th Indian to enter the 100-Test club when he takes on the field during the national side's first Test versus Sri Lanka, in Mohali, on March 04. The 33-year-old will join an elite list of Indians, spearheaded by Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar, by featuring in his 100th outing in whites.

Kohli will join Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, Sunil Gavaskar, VVS Laxman, Dilip Vengsarkar, Kapil Dev, Anil Kumble, Sourav Ganguly, Virender Sehwag, Harbhajan Singh and Ishant Sharma in the 100-Test club. So far, he has amassed 7,962 runs in 99 games -- at an average of over 50 -- with 27 hundreds and 28 half-centuries.

Along with his splendid run with the bat, Kohli is also India's most successful Test captain. He signed off as the Test captain recently, resigning from the post earlier this year, with 40 wins from 68 encounters. Ahead of his landmark Test match, BCCI chief Ganguly heaped praise on Kohli and shared a special message for him.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-sri-lanka-virat-kohli-reflects-on-his-journey-ahead-of-historic-100th-test-watch-458601">India vs Sri Lanka: Virat Kohli reflects on his journey ahead of historic 100th Test - WATCH</a>

&nbsp;

"It is a huge landmark in any cricketer’s career. Playing a hundred Test matches is something you dream of when you start playing for the country. It’s a great moment for Virat, it’s a great moment for Indian cricket. I have personally been in this situation and realized how humongous and momentous this is personally for any cricketer," stated the former cricketer.

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"Virat’s had a great journey. Starting 10-11 years ago and getting to where he has reached today is an exceptional achievement. On behalf of BCCI and also a former captain and player who has played 100 Test matches and more, I wish him all the very best," Ganguly added. "He has had a fantastic career and he is still got some time left to achieve the greater milestone and I hope he continues doing that. Congratulations to him, his family, his coach and all those who were involved in his cricketing career," he concluded.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-100th-test-rohit-sharma-shares-his-best-memory-of-former-indian-captain-in-whites-458539">Virat Kohli 100th Test: Rohit Sharma shares his best memory of former Indian captain in whites</a>

Kohli also reacted to his historic feat. In a video posted by the BCCI, on Thursday (March 03), he said, "I honestly never thought I would play 100 Test matches. It has been a long journey. We played a lot of cricket over the course of playing those 100 Test matches. A lot of international cricket. I am just grateful that I've been able to make it to 100. God has been kind. I have worked really hard for my fitness. It's a big moment for me, for my family, for my coach, who is also very happy and very proud of this Test match as long as I am concerned."

"I never grew up thinking that I have to score small runs, the idea was to score big runs. I scored a lot of double hundreds in junior cricket. My idea was to bat long and I enjoyed doing that. These things took a lot out of you and it revealed your true character. Test cricket needed to stay alive, for me, this is real cricket," he added.

Virat Kohli will become the 12th Indian to enter the 100-Test club when he takes on the field during the national side's first Test versus Sri Lanka, in Mohali, on March 04.

Virat Kohli will become the 12th Indian to enter the 100-Test club when he takes on the field during the national side's first Test versus Sri Lanka, in Mohali, on March 04. The 33-year-old will join an elite list of Indians, spearheaded by Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar, by featuring in his 100th outing in whites. Kohli will join Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, Sunil Gavaskar, VVS Laxman, Dilip Vengsarkar, Kapil Dev, Anil Kumble, Sourav Ganguly, Virender Sehwag, Harbhajan Singh and Ishant Sharma in the 100-Test club. So far, he has amassed 7,962 runs in 99 games -- at an average of over 50 -- with 27 hundreds and 28 half-centuries. Along with his splendid run with the bat, Kohli is also India's most successful Test captain. He signed off as the Test captain recently, resigning from the post earlier this year, with 40 wins from 68 encounters. Ahead of his landmark Test match, BCCI chief Ganguly heaped praise on Kohli and shared a special message for him. ALSO READ | India vs Sri Lanka: Virat Kohli reflects on his journey ahead of historic 100th Test - WATCH "It is a huge landmark in any cricketer’s career. Playing a hundred Test matches is something you dream of when you start playing for the country. It’s a great moment for Virat, it’s a great moment for Indian cricket. I have personally been in this situation and realized how humongous and momentous this is personally for any cricketer," stated the former cricketer. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Team India (@indiancricketteam) × "Virat’s had a great journey. Starting 10-11 years ago and getting to where he has reached today is an exceptional achievement. On behalf of BCCI and also a former captain and player who has played 100 Test matches and more, I wish him all the very best," Ganguly added. "He has had a fantastic career and he is still got some time left to achieve the greater milestone and I hope he continues doing that. Congratulations to him, his family, his coach and all those who were involved in his cricketing career," he concluded. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli 100th Test: Rohit Sharma shares his best memory of former Indian captain in whites Kohli also reacted to his historic feat. In a video posted by the BCCI, on Thursday (March 03), he said, "I honestly never thought I would play 100 Test matches. It has been a long journey. We played a lot of cricket over the course of playing those 100 Test matches. A lot of international cricket. I am just grateful that I've been able to make it to 100. God has been kind. I have worked really hard for my fitness. It's a big moment for me, for my family, for my coach, who is also very happy and very proud of this Test match as long as I am concerned." "I never grew up thinking that I have to score small runs, the idea was to score big runs. I scored a lot of double hundreds in junior cricket. My idea was to bat long and I enjoyed doing that. These things took a lot out of you and it revealed your true character. Test cricket needed to stay alive, for me, this is real cricket," he added.

Great moment for Indian cricket: Ganguly shares special message for Kohli ahead of his 100th Test - WATCH

Virat Kohli is set to become the 12th Indian to enter the 100-Test club when India lock horns with Sri Lanka in the two-match series opener in Mohali on March 04 (Friday). Thus, Kohli will add another feather to his illustrious hat by joining some big Indian names in the elite club.

Among Indians, Kohli will join the list spearheaded by Sachin Tendulkar. It also comprises Rahul Dravid, VVS Laxman, Sunil Gavaskar, Kapil Dev, Anil Kumble, Dilip Vengsarkar, Virender Sehwag, Sourav Ganguly, Harbhajan Singh and Ishant Sharma.

Ahead of his historic Test match, the 33-year-old former Indian captain Kohli reflected on his memorable journey. "I honestly never thought I would play 100 Test matches. It has been a long journey. We played a lot of cricket over the course of playing those 100 Test matches. A lot of international cricket. I am just grateful that I've been able to make it to 100. God has been kind. I have worked really hard for my fitness. It's a big moment for me, for my family, for my coach, who is also very happy and very proud of this Test match as long as I am concerned,"&nbsp;Kohli said in a video posted by BCCI.

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'I never thought i'll play 100 Test matches. It has been a long journey. Grateful that i've been able to make it to 100' - <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> on his landmark Test. 
 
Full interview coming up on <a href="https://t.co/Z3MPyesSeZ">https://t.co/Z3MPyesSeZ</a>. Stay tuned! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VK100?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VK100</a> <a href="https://t.co/SFehIolPwb">pic.twitter.com/SFehIolPwb</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1499300756205101058?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2022</a></blockquote>
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"I never grew up thinking that I have to score small runs, the idea was to score big runs. I scored a lot of double hundreds in junior cricket. My idea was to bat long and I enjoyed doing that. These things took a lot out of you and it revealed your true character. Test cricket needed to stay alive, for me, this is real cricket," he added.

In 99 Tests, Kohli has amassed 7,962 runs at an average of&nbsp;50.39 with 27 hundreds and 28 half-centuries. He is the sixth-highest run-getter among Indians and has fourth-most centuries&nbsp;among his countrymen. The right-hander also ended a glorious run as Test captain, resigning earlier this year, with most wins as an Indian skipper (40 in 68 games).

Virat Kohli is set to become the 12th Indian to enter the 100-Test club when India lock horns with Sri Lanka in the two-match series opener in Mohali on March 04 (Friday).

Virat Kohli is set to become the 12th Indian to enter the 100-Test club when India lock horns with Sri Lanka in the two-match series opener in Mohali on March 04 (Friday). Thus, Kohli will add another feather to his illustrious hat by joining some big Indian names in the elite club. Among Indians, Kohli will join the list spearheaded by Sachin Tendulkar. It also comprises Rahul Dravid, VVS Laxman, Sunil Gavaskar, Kapil Dev, Anil Kumble, Dilip Vengsarkar, Virender Sehwag, Sourav Ganguly, Harbhajan Singh and Ishant Sharma. Ahead of his historic Test match, the 33-year-old former Indian captain Kohli reflected on his memorable journey. "I honestly never thought I would play 100 Test matches. It has been a long journey. We played a lot of cricket over the course of playing those 100 Test matches. A lot of international cricket. I am just grateful that I've been able to make it to 100. God has been kind. I have worked really hard for my fitness. It's a big moment for me, for my family, for my coach, who is also very happy and very proud of this Test match as long as I am concerned," Kohli said in a video posted by BCCI. 'I never thought i'll play 100 Test matches. It has been a long journey. Grateful that i've been able to make it to 100' - @imVkohli on his landmark Test. Full interview coming up on https://t.co/Z3MPyesSeZ. Stay tuned! #VK100 pic.twitter.com/SFehIolPwb — BCCI (@BCCI) March 3, 2022 × "I never grew up thinking that I have to score small runs, the idea was to score big runs. I scored a lot of double hundreds in junior cricket. My idea was to bat long and I enjoyed doing that. These things took a lot out of you and it revealed your true character. Test cricket needed to stay alive, for me, this is real cricket," he added. In 99 Tests, Kohli has amassed 7,962 runs at an average of 50.39 with 27 hundreds and 28 half-centuries. He is the sixth-highest run-getter among Indians and has fourth-most centuries among his countrymen. The right-hander also ended a glorious run as Test captain, resigning earlier this year, with most wins as an Indian skipper (40 in 68 games).

India vs Sri Lanka: Virat Kohli reflects on his journey ahead of historic 100th Test - WATCH

Formula One will no longer race in Russia after the sport terminated its contract with the promoter of the Russian Grand Prix, it said on Thursday, in response to the country's invasion of neighbouring Ukraine.

The event, which was set to move to a new track outside St Petersburg next year from its current Sochi Olympic park venue, had a contract until 2025.

The sport announced the cancellation of the 2022 race, originally scheduled for Sept 25, last week.

"Formula One can confirm it has terminated its contract with the Russian Grand Prix promoter meaning Russia will not have a race in the future," a statement from the sport's commercial rights holder, which decides the calendar, said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/f1-world-champion-max-verstappen-to-stay-at-red-bull-until-2028-458577">F1 world champion Max Verstappen to stay at Red Bull until 2028</a>

Formula One's move to effectively pull out of Russia comes after the sport's governing body, the FIA, on Tuesday condemned the country's invasion of Ukraine but said Russian and Belarusian drivers could still take part in its competitions in a neutral capacity.

British federation Motorsport UK on Wednesday banned Russian and Belarusian license holders from racing in the country regardless of the flag they compete under.

Nikita Mazepin is the only Russian on the Formula One grid.

The 22-year-old already faces an uncertain future after his U.S.-owned Haas team removed all branding related to Russian potash producer and title sponsor Uralkali from its car on the final day of last week's Barcelona test.

Uralkali is owned by Mazepin's father, oligarch Dmitry Mazepin, and the fate of the partnership and the Russian's continued presence at the team is set to be decided this week.

The Russian Grand Prix joined the calendar in 2014.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-can-do-better-serena-williams-lashes-out-at-top-newspaper-for-confusing-her-with-sister-venus-458517">You can do better: Serena Williams lashes out at top newspaper for confusing her with sister Venus</a>

It has been attended by President Vladimir Putin in the past, with the Russian leader even handing out trophies on the podium.

Russia launched an all-out invasion of Ukraine last week, with Belarus used as a key staging area.

The country calls its actions in Ukraine a "special operation."

Formula One will no longer race in Russia after the sport terminated its contract with the promoter of the Russian Grand Prix, it said on Thursday, in response to the country's invasion of neighbouring Ukraine.

Formula One will no longer race in Russia after the sport terminated its contract with the promoter of the Russian Grand Prix, it said on Thursday, in response to the country's invasion of neighbouring Ukraine. The event, which was set to move to a new track outside St Petersburg next year from its current Sochi Olympic park venue, had a contract until 2025. The sport announced the cancellation of the 2022 race, originally scheduled for Sept 25, last week. "Formula One can confirm it has terminated its contract with the Russian Grand Prix promoter meaning Russia will not have a race in the future," a statement from the sport's commercial rights holder, which decides the calendar, said. ALSO READ: F1 world champion Max Verstappen to stay at Red Bull until 2028 Formula One's move to effectively pull out of Russia comes after the sport's governing body, the FIA, on Tuesday condemned the country's invasion of Ukraine but said Russian and Belarusian drivers could still take part in its competitions in a neutral capacity. British federation Motorsport UK on Wednesday banned Russian and Belarusian license holders from racing in the country regardless of the flag they compete under. Nikita Mazepin is the only Russian on the Formula One grid. The 22-year-old already faces an uncertain future after his U.S.-owned Haas team removed all branding related to Russian potash producer and title sponsor Uralkali from its car on the final day of last week's Barcelona test. Uralkali is owned by Mazepin's father, oligarch Dmitry Mazepin, and the fate of the partnership and the Russian's continued presence at the team is set to be decided this week. The Russian Grand Prix joined the calendar in 2014. ALSO READ: You can do better: Serena Williams lashes out at top newspaper for confusing her with sister Venus It has been attended by President Vladimir Putin in the past, with the Russian leader even handing out trophies on the podium. Russia launched an all-out invasion of Ukraine last week, with Belarus used as a key staging area. The country calls its actions in Ukraine a "special operation."

No Russian Grand Prix in future as Formula One terminates contract in wake of Ukraine crisis

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