EL2: Hamilton takes control in Sochi

Lewis Hamilton set the best time on the first day of testing for the Russian Grand Prix. The pilot Mercedes completed a lap of the Sochi circuit in 1'37''583, six tenths better than the time of his teammate Nico Rosberg achieved this morning. The German, who used soft tires, finished almost eight tenths behind the Briton, being inserted between the Ferrari de Sebastian Vettel and Kimi Raikkonen.

The four-time world champion set promising times before stopping on track after half an hour of testing following an electrical problem. The German finished in front Daniel Ricciardo (Red Bull) who set his best time on soft compounds. Valtteri Bottas (Williams) follows in sixth place ahead of Daniil Kvyat (Red Bull), while Jenson Button (McLaren), Felipe Massa (Williams) and Fernando Alonso (McLaren) complete the top ten.

The Toro Rosso de Carlos Sainz Jr and Max Verstappen precede the Force Indias of Nico Hulkenberg and Sergio Pérez. THE Haas VF16 of Romain Grosjean (16th) and Esteban Gutiérrez are still behind, finishing surrounded by the two Renault de Kevin Magnussen and Jolyon Palmer.

The final practice session for the Russian Grand Prix will be followed live tomorrow from 11 a.m. on Canal+ Sport.