Russian Grand Prix 2017: Event Continues to Grow in Popularity

The Russian Grand Prix is relatively a new entrant to the Formula One world championship calendar. It was introduced to the modern Formula One racing only in 2014. The races are held at the Sochi Autodrom, which is a street circuit that has been built on the Olympic Park in Sochi. As one of the growing number of street races in the Formula One calendar, the Russian Grand Prix 2017 is the fourth consecutive edition. The organisers have signed a seven-year contract – starting from 2014 – in order to host the F1 races in this location.

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History

The first instance of the Russian Grand Prix was held back in 1913. A circuit in St Petersburg was the location for this race, which was also held in 1914. Georgy Suvorin managed to win the inaugural race, while Willy Scholl managed to win the second edition. However, subsequent races were cancelled due to the world War. The return of Russia to the racing scenario is not surprising, as the sport has been growing in popularity over the last couple of years. Vitaly Petrov recently became the first F1 driver from Russia, when he joined Renault in 2010.

Past Winners

Mercedes have dominated the Russian Grand Prix after winning the three races in succession. Lisa Hamilton won the first two races in 2014 and 2015, but Nico Rosberg prevented a hat-trick of wins by claiming a victory in the 2016 edition. The last race witnessed Rosberg achieve a perfect hat-trick, as he managed to qualify on pole position, win the race, and also set the fastest time. The 2017 Russian Grand Prix will be taking place on April 30. The race occurs just before a crucial break that would bring a round of updates to several teams including Mercedes. As the fourth race on the 2017 F1 calendar, the Russian Grand Prix is an important element for drivers looking to win the World Championship title.

Russian Grand Prix: Changes made at Turn 2 to deter corner cutting

The FIA has announced new changes made to the 2nd corner of the Russian Grand Prix's F1 track in an effort to deter drivers from actually cutting the track.

Speed bumps were added at Turn 2 of the circuit, and kerbs have also been altered. The really tight-hander is the first major braking zone around the lap. History shows that many incidents took place there, with drivers cutting the corner or running wide. FIA told the Formula 1 drivers and teams that 5cm-high speed bumps (orange) were placed just 3m from the edge of the track after exiting Turn 2.

One of the most anticipated Grand Prix races is the 2017 Russian Grand Prix and readers and fans alike at OddsDigger can't wait to see who will top the Drivers' Standings this time. Sebastian Vettel and Lewis Hamilton have a new rival in the face of Max Verstappen, so let's wait and see what happens next.