It was an intense last couple of laps yesterday at Sochi as Sebastian Vettel  attempted to haul in and challenge Valtteri Bottas for the race win.

The Ferrari driver closed with DRS range before the start of the ultimate round but stumbled upon Felipe Massa's Williams, which gave Bottas the extra bit of margin to keep victory in sight.

"He did cost me," said Vettel.

"First of all, he handed a very pleasant tow to Valtteri on the last lap, and I was in the DRS, which was tough enough to do.

"And then he let him by and I don't know if he knew there was another car coming. I don't think, maybe.

"Obviously Felipe did him a favour twice. Once handing him a pleasant tow and then he cost me a bit of time. But that's how it is with backmarkers."

Footage indeed shows Vettel's frustration as he delivers a clear middle-finger gesture to the Brazilian who, when all was said and done, just responded with "Vettel always likes to complain."

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.

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