Lewis Hamilton was happy to be back behind the wheel of his Mercedes AMG PETRONAS W07 during free practice for the Russian Grand Prix after what he described as a long wait since the disappointment of his seventh place finish in China two weekends ago.
The reigning World Champion set the pace in second practice after finishing second to team-mate Nico Rosberg in the opening session, and felt it was a ‘constructive’ day at the Sochi Autodrom.
Hamilton believes Ferrari could pose a threat to the team this weekend, but hopes to still see his Mercedes team out front come Sunday.
“It’s good to be back in the car after what’s felt like a pretty long wait since China,” revealed Hamilton. “It’s been a constructive day to start the weekend, too.
“We got through most of our programme except one last little bit at the end as some of my tyres were flat-spotted but no big drama there.
“I think we’re looking strong here – but we need to keep working hard if we are to try and stay ahead of the Ferraris. They look like they might be another step closer this weekend.
“We’ve got a few things to look at to make sure we perfect the set-up for qualifying, so we shall see how it goes…”
