Alonso itching to return to Sochi

Fernando Alonso has confessed his excitement at the chance to return to the track at Sochi for the Russian Grand Prix, having missed out on the opportunity to race on the circuit last season due to engine reliability issues cancelling his starting place.

Under the Formula One world championship, the Russian Grand Prix has only been held since 2014, and it has proved to be a circuit which suits Mercedes, with the Silver Arrows having won every race so far.

Even though Alonso has only competed on the street circuit on three occasions, he is itching to get back out there after last year's disappointing exclusion.

“It feels like a long time since we last raced in Russia as the race was much earlier on the calendar last year," the Spaniard told the official Formula One site.

"It also feels longer for me since I didn’t make the start due to reliability issues, so I’m looking forward to finally racing in Sochi again."

Alonso claimed seventh position in Singapore in the last GP, which proved to be a rare positive outing for McLaren in a season which won't go down as a vintage one for the British team.

“Last weekend was definitely a boost for everyone," Alonso continued.

"We have had at least one DNF over the last few races, so crossing the line with both cars was positive, and something we need to keep working on every race. It was great to get points too, and the aim is always to keep scoring at every possible opportunity.

“We know some of the coming races won’t be as favourable to us as Singapore, and there will be tracks that won’t suit our car as much. With every race we’re pushing hard, learning a lot and trying to maximise what we have. Sochi is a fun circuit with a very interesting and unique layout with its 90-degree corners, so let’s see how our car performs there.”

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