2016 Russian Grand Prix - Practice Sessions

MERCEDES FASTEST IN BOTH PRACTICE SESSIONS ON RAPIDLY-EVOLVING SOCHI CIRCUIT

TRACK TEMPERATURES HIGHER THAN AT THE LAST RUSSIAN GP, ONLY SIX MONTHS AGO

JUST UNDER A SECOND SEPARATES THE SOFT FROM THE SUPERSOFT COMPOUND, SETTING THE SCENE FOR MANY STRATEGIC OPTIONS

While track temperatures in the Russian spring were warmer than when the race was last held in autumn six months ago, the essential characteristics of the Sochi circuit remained: rapid evolution, as the ‘green’ track had more rubber laid on it, and a very smooth surface, which kept tyre wear and degradation to a minimum. Most of the drivers used the supersoft tyre already in FP1, which proved to be well suited to the track layout, and was used to set the fastest time in both sessions today. Paul Hembery, Pirelli motorsport director: “Soft and supersoft tyres were seen in both sessions today, and different strategic choices from Mercedes and Ferrari about how those tyres were used. With just under a second between the two compounds, the supersoft seems set to be the qualifying tyre tomorrow, and it will be interesting to see whether or not the medium tyre comes into play during the race weekend at all. We’ve got plenty of data to look at now, but initial indications suggest that a one-stopper could well be possible here: although it’s unlikely to be quickest way. This all depends on track evolution though: a hallmark of Sochi that will continue throughout the weekend.”

FP1 - BEST TIME PER COMPOUND

FP2 - BEST TIME PER COMPOUND

LONGEST STINTS OF THE DAY

Tyre statistics of the day:

* The above number gives the total amount of kilometres driven in FP1 and FP2 today, all drivers combined. ** Per compound, all drivers combined. Minimum prescribed tyre pressures: 23 psi (fronts) 19.5 psi (rears) Pirelli fact of the day: Prior to Sochi’s inauguration in 2014, the Grand Prix of St Petersburg was held twice in 1913 and 1914. The first race was won by Russian driver Georgy Suvorin in a Benz, while Germany’s Willy Scholl won the second race, also in a 35-horsepower Benz. Spotted in the paddock today: Sergey Sirotkin. The 20-year-old Russian, who had been formerly tipped for a Sauber race drive in 2014, drove for Renault in FP1 this morning, setting a respectable 13th-fastest (which was actually faster than his team mate). Currently competing in GP2, he is targeting a return to F1 next season. For more information: please visit our all-new website, which is regularly updated with exclusive in-depth features, news and reviews. To find out more, please visit: www.pirelli.com/global/en-ww/russia-2016-practice