FP1 & FP2 - Russian GP report: Pirelli

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.”