World champion beats title rival Max Verstappen into secondLando Norris spins off in heavy rain late on while in the leadWith high drama and heartbreak the
Russian Grand Prix was an appropriately Chekhovian affair on the shores of the Black Sea. Intense and enthralling until the closing laps, it ended with glory for the lead protagonist
Lewis Hamilton, gaining his 100th
Formula One victory, but anguish for Lando Norris, Sochi’s other leading player who was left ashen-faced and devastated after a salutary reminder of how cruel sport can be.
For Hamilton it was a chance to celebrate a unique double century of 101 poles and 100 wins, a feat unmatched in the sport.