Lewis Hamilton won Russian Grand Prix through a controversial team decision by Mercedes which allowed him to drive past Valtteri Bottas. Bottas who started the race from pole position continued the lead throughout the race ahead of Hamilton. But with pressure building from Championship title competitor Sebastian Vettel, Mercedes ordered Bottas to let go Hamilton ahead.
With the win, Lewis Hamilton has a lead of 50 points over Sebastian Vettel. While Valtteri Bottas finished the race at second place Sebastian Vettel also took the podium. Ferrari’s Kimi Raikkonen finished fourth and Reb Bull’s Max Verstappen finished fifth.
With 5 Races remaining in the season and with 125 points left to play Hamilton boasts a health 50 points lead, which is equivalent to two victories.
Valtteri, it is James, We had a risk with Lewis against Vettel. He has a small blister (on his tire). I had to do this to make sure we secured this.” Mercedes chief strategist James Vowles explained the decision to Bottas, to which he remained silent.
“It was a difficult day,” Bottas said after the race. “It was a good result as a team but personally as everyone saw it was quite difficult. Lewis is fighting for the championship so we always have a plan, but it is what it is,” he added.
