F1 Russian Grand Prix, 2019: 5 Talking Points

#1 Mercedes 1-2 finish stops Ferrari's resurgence

Lewis Hamilton got back to winning ways during the Russian Grand Prix

Based on qualifying results, the chances of Ferrari coming out on top in Russia were high. Mercedes, however, had the foresight to ensure a start on medium tyres by opting that compound during Q2. They banked on the knowledge of safety cars being a common occurrence in Sochi.

Mercedes did not show enough race pace at the start to put the Ferraris under pressure, so they played the waiting game. The harder tyres on both their drivers lengthened their stint. Once the virtual safety car was announced, they dashed into the pits for a quick pit-stop.

Lewis came out in front of the lone Ferrari remaining. Soon, when Leclerc pitted again for a set of soft tyres, Bottas inherited the second place. Despite Leclerc bringing the fight to Bottas, the latter was well up to the challenge. Hamilton, on the other hand, pushed hard to leave the rest in the dust and also attain the fastest lap of the race.