Third free practice for the Russian Grand Prix cancelled

The third free practice for the Russian Grand Prix has been cancelled. Because of the heavy rain the decision has been taken to cancel the session and the clock will not even run down.

After Mercedes set the standard on Friday, and in particular Valtteri Bottas was dominant at a track he has enjoyed success on before. He topped both sessions ahead of his Mercedes teammate Lewis Hamilton on both occasions.

It was confirmed that Max Verstappen would start Sunday's race from the back of the grid, after Red Bull decided to take a new power-unit. The Dutchman currently leads the standings but Mercedes and Hamilton are hot on their heels and look to picking up some form. 

However, neither team will get to show what they are capable of in Sochi on Saturday morning, with FP3 cancelled due to bad weather. Rain fall is heavy in Sochi and there was even spells of thunder and lightning making conditions extremenly treaturous. It isn't the first time the weather has got in the way this season after Spa saw half points awarded in farcicle circumstances with only two laps behind the safety car completed.

FP3 has been canceled

Heavy rain in Sochi means the final practice session will not take place #RussianGP #F1 pic.twitter.com/CTsZnt3tgS

— Formula 1 (@F1) September 25, 2021