Nikita Mazepin suffers nightmare F1 debut as he crashes after just THREE CORNERS of first lap following qualifying hell

NIKITA MAZEPIN suffered a nightmare debut in his Formula One debut after crashing after just THREE CORNERS of Sunday’s Grand Prix in Bahrain.

The Russian, 22, joined Mick Schumacher at Haas for the 2021 F1 season over the winter.

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Nikita Mazepin crashed just three corners into his Formula one debut in BahrainCredit: AFP

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Mazepin hitched a ride back to the paddock after his first-lap exitCredit: AFP

And after qualifying dead-last in Bahrain – eight-tenths of second off the pace of Schumacher – Mazepin was out just three turns into the first lap.

In worrying scenes, Mazepin hit the wall – with the safety car brought out after the yellow flag was waved.

The Haas team breathed a collective sigh of relief after Mazepin radioed in to say: “I’m OK.”

Incredibly, the accident was the Russian rookie’s FIFTH of the weekend.

Former F1 star Jolyon Palmer admitted it was the worst-possible start to Mazepin’s career.

Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live Sport, the ex-Renault racer said: “Mazepin is struggling. A lot.

“So many spins so far – five this weekend.

“Really, really bad start to life in F1.”

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Mazepin’s Haas was lifted to safety following the Russian’s third-lap crashCredit: AFP

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Shortly after Mazepin’s crash, team-mate Schumacher spun off the track and into the gravel.

However, the on of seven-time world champion Michael managed to stay in the race, dropping down to 19th following his strong start having qualified second-last on Saturday.

Mazepin will next have the chance to hit the track in Imola next month.

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