The Russian Grand Prix has always had the country’s prime minister, Vladimir Putin, showing up in Sochi for most of the Formula One events that took place over the last decade. And it is quite obvious that the Russian leader holds a soft spot for racing which was very much evident following the F1 race in 2015.
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Lewis Hamilton sprayed champagne all over Putin while celebrating his race victory on the podium. However, quite interestingly, while many anticipated consequences for the Briton’s actions, Putin instead took it cheerfully and walked away with a smile on his face.
Definitely surprising! But, that’s not it! Here’s something that only further solidifies the theory of Putin possibly liking F1 more than any other motorsport series in the world.
Putin drives an F1 car
Associated Press released raw footage of Putin being debriefed before he drove a Renault F1 car on an empty road strip. This happened on a Sunday afternoon on the outskirts of his home city, St. Petersburg and the Russian government head piloted the 2006 Renault challenger.
According to reports, Putin managed to clock a top speed of over 250 km/hr which isn’t really surprising; he also had the experience of piloting a fighter jet.
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Lewis Hamilton’s promise to Putin
Hamilton would have endured a horror night following his Russian GP win in 2015 wondering how Putin must have felt after being sprayed by champagne. Hence, to clear the air between himself and Putin, the seven-time world champion, made a promise to the Russian PM three years later at the 2018 Russian GP.
Hamilton had just won the race and entered the cooldown room and Putin managed to join them. Putin’s translator said, “I am accustomed to awarding you something each year. Year, after year…” before being interrupted by Hamilton.
The Briton then replied, “This year I won’t spray you with Champagne. Last year it wasn’t me. It was someone else!” And well, Hamilton did keep his promise as he not only shook Putin’s hands on the podium but also waited for him to leave before the champagne shower began.
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