The Sochi Autodrom was built as part of the 2014 Winter Olympic venues to host that year’s Russian Grand Prix. Inevitably, another new Formula 1 circuit from the pen of architect Hermann Tilke, that inaugural race was played out amid a backdrop of tensions in neighbouring Ukraine. Russian Daniil Kvyat qualified an impressive fifth for Toro Rosso although the race was among the least exciting of the season. That season, Nico Rosberg fought his way through the field to second position after an early mistake as Mercedes-Benz team-mate Lewis Hamilton took control of the World Championship. Practice for the 2015 event was disrupted by a diesel spill on the Friday and Carlos Sainz's huge accident at Turn 13 a day later. The race was altogether more exciting than the year before, although World Champion Hamilton delivered another crushing victory. Russia has a seven year contract with Formula One Management for the Grand Prix but the jury on this venue in the Black Sea resort remains out.
