Event overview

The Russian Grand Prix was the only brand new race on the 2014 calendar, with the F1 World Championship making its debut in the country that year. The new track was built around the facilities that hosted the 2014 Winter Olympics, making it a big year for Russia and the organisers of both events. The street track navigates around the Olympic Park for almost 6 kilometres, although the surface won’t be put down until the winter sporting activities and the closing ceremony of the Games have been completed.

Negotiations for a Russian race have been ongoing for decades, but with the focus on sport the country indulged in during 2014, plus the debut of Russian driver Daniil Kvyat and then-participation of sportscar manufacturer Marussia, the timing for the new race couldn’t have been better.

The track was made up of public roads, winding around the Olympic buildings, including skating centre, medals plaza and the athletes' village. As a street circuit, there aren't any hugely long straights for the drivers to enjoy, but the start of the lap comes at the beginning of a nice easy stretch of track.

The first corner is a gentle right hander, leading to a straight that ends in a tight, ninety degree right hander. The circuit bends around in a u-shape that leads to a boxy complex of corners to bring the track back on itself.

Through a close and tricky turns nine and ten, the lap leads to another ninety degree right hander, before bending back in the not-straight stretch of track that leads to the final sector. Reminiscent of the swimming pool section of Monaco, the final few corners lead round another square section before the final turn sends drivers back out on the home straight.

Sadly, the 2014 race didn't live up to expectations, providing what was considered the dullest race of the season. It was also overshadowed by the bizarre appearance of the Russian president, both in the grandstands and in the pre-podium driver's room. However, the race continues on the calendar giving Russia a presence in the sport.

Learn more about Sochi with the Pocket F1 Handbook.