Rosberg happy, but wants straight fight with Hamilton

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In addition to his fourth victory on a trot in 2017, Nico Rosberg's weekend in Russia amounted to a series of impressive statistics.

The Mercedes driver collected in Sochi his 17th career win and seventh victory in a row since the end of 2015, a feat only achieved previously by the great Alberto Ascari, Michael Schumacher and Sebastian Vettel.

In addition, it was also the first time Rosberg enjoyed a 'grand slam' weekend, with pole, a win and the fastest lap.

"It's been an awesome weekend, and the car was fantastic and felt very special out there, so I'm very happy," enthused the day's winner on the podium.

"I was able to attack and feel very confident in the car which is great as it increases the enjoyment. Everything went perfect but I'm also aware of the fact that my direct competitors had a couple of mishaps which for sure helped me this weekend."

Rosberg's run was relentless all afternoon, never letting up, even in the closing stages of the race where his pace continued unabated.

"I just keep going to keep up my concentration, because if I slow down, you start making mistakes. I was enjoying out there so it was just flat out until the end."

Hamilton's rapid progress up to second place was at the center of Rosberg's attention for a good part of the afternoon as the leader of the championship refuses to let his guard down against his team mate.

"Lewis did a great job to come up from second so quickly and I was always aware of what he was doing, trying to keep the gap as big as possible. "

As successful as his season debut has been, Rosberg still feels that there's a missing ingredient in the form of a straight fight with Lewis Hamilton, which has yet to occur. But the German is ready.

"A straight fight with Lewis is what I'm here for. In the end, he's the benchmark and I look forward to it happening again. It's always going to be a tough battle against him because he's still as motivated and quick as ever.

"I want to win races, and in the end it doesn't really matter how. Winning is great but the ecstatic feeling isn't there? It's there when I win a battle against Lewis, that's what really produce the ultimate thrill."

REPORT: Rosberg eases to win after Kvyat takes out Vettel

AS IT HAPPENED: 2016 Russian Grand Prix

Breakfast with ... Martin Brundle

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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.