Hamilton hints at reasons for lack of pace

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Lewis Hamilton was but a bystander for most of Sunday afternoon, albeit one racing towards the front but without the ability to challenge for the lead.

The Mercedes driver enjoyed a fairly good start from P4 on the grid but ultimately settled into fourth behind Ferrari's Kimi Raikkonen before his W08's temperatures started to rise, forcing the Brit to race in a conservative mode all the way to the checkered flag.

"For me, a very, very odd weekend - it has been a very, very tough I can't remember having as difficult a weekend, probably the last time was Baku," Hamilton said.

"Ultimately not quick enough, could not put the car where I was comfortable. In the race there was overheating, so I will just have to settle for fourth.

After struggling with balance issues from the outset at Sochi, Hamilton admitted his never really had a chance in the race.

"I was out of the race from the get go. I wasn't able to stay in the battle. I think I had the pace to fight with Kimi, the car was just overheating all the time."

Brilliant start hands Valtteri Bottas maiden GP win

The triple world champion believes however that with regard to his speed deficit, he has a few ideas what may be wrong although he would not elaborate on the subject.

"I think through the race I understood it (the deficit). Speed-wise I think I know where the problem is, and we'll try to fix it for the next one."

Hamilton was full of praise for his team mate and Valtteri Bottas' performance in Sochi

"A big congratulations to Valtteri, he did a fantastic job and deserves the win today. He's been fast all weekend, so exceptional and great for the team.

"I just wish I could have backed him up in terms of points, but I held on the best I could."

Gallery: All the action from Sunday in Sochi

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.