The Formula 1 Grand Prix of Russia has become the starting point for the new history of motorsport of Russia and the whole world. On October 12, 2014, the long-awaited and the first stage of "royal races" in the history of this country has taken place.

"Sochi Auto Circuit" is the only track in the calendar of Formula 1 that is both a city one and permanent.

The characteristic feature of the circuit is its prolonged third turn with a negative grade.

The most modern racing circuit in the world during the racing weekend was attended by over 166,000 people.

The best Russian specialists and international experts with extensive experience in the Grand Prix organization were called to make preparations for the large-scale sporting event.

Taking care of sporting aspect of the race Russian Automobile Federation has trained 1,100 people, including 420 judges and marshals. To communicate with visitors of the Grand Prix of Russia 1250 volunteers were involved, throughout the city more than 22,000 pointers were placed.
At racing circuit 11 television screens were installed, live comments in Russian and English were provided. At the territory of Sochi racetrack two shopping and entertainment areas F1 Village were set up as well. At the square Medals’ Plaza the tent was put with the zone of gaming simulators. Among them there were professional racing simulators used by teams of Formula 1.

All participating in Sochi race pilots of Formula 1 attended autograph sessions.

The broadcatsing of the first Russian stage of Formula 1 in history made by TV channel "Russia 2" was viewed by some 3.4 million Russians that is three times above the average audience of other stages of the F1 Championship.

The Grand Prix Formula 1 in Sochi was won by the British pilot Lewis Hamilton, the best lap time on the circuit of "Sochi racetrack" was achieved by Valtteri Bottas – 1 minute 40.896 seconds.

Bernie Ecclestone, the promoter of Formula 1, said: "The Grand Prix of Russia went along very well, nothing to complain about".

Richard Cregan, the international consultant for "Sochi racetrack", observed: "Now everyone is talking about Monaco, Singapore, Abu Dhabi, I am sure, soon everyone will be talking about the Grand Prix in Sochi. I think this is the track of the future".

Lewis Hamilton, the winner of the Grand Prix in Sochi: "I am very happy, we had the great weekend! Fans, race organizers – here in Russia I liked everything, me and our team had very warm welcome! Already I want to come to your country again and again, it's not far from the places where I live, I have no doubt that some time I will come here for holiday".

The source: sochiautodrom.ru