Russian youngster Sergey Sirotkin has driven an F1 car for the first time, the 17-year-old driving the Sauber C31 at a demonstration in Sochi.

Between the Singapore and Korean Grands Prix the Swiss team headed to Russia for a first taste of the Sochi International Street Circuit, which will host the 2014 Russian Grand Prix.

Sirotkin drove the car during the show run, which formed part of the 12th International Investment Forum. Blasting the C31 along the 700 meters of tarmac that are already finished, Sirotkin was able to get a taste of what possibly lies ahead of him next year.

"These were my first metres in a Formula One car, which obviously is something very special, even though it was only a short part of the Sochi track," said Sirotkin. "Nevertheless I was able to gain a first impression, and this was awesome. It was fun to drive in front of such a big crowd, particularly because most of them were compatriots. Russia can be proud of this great track."

"We are proud to be part of this historic event, a Russian driver drives a Formula One car for the first time at the track in Sochi," added Monisha Kaltenborn. "The show run marks an important milestone in the lead up to the inaugural Russian Formula One Grand Prix, which our team is looking forward to."