Grapevine: Williams, Red Bull take F1 to Moscow

Nico Rosberg demonstrated a Williams FW29 and Mikhail Aleshin a Red Bull Racing car around a 4.6-kilometre street circuit that ran near the Kremlin as part of a festival of motor racing.

Aleshin told the local media: "I was very excited and anxious at the same time. I know it's just a demonstration race, but the level of anxiety is similar to that before a real race.

"I believe this is a great day for motor sports in Russia."

Rosberg added: "I'm in the privileged position to be a part of many big events, but this really rates as one of the most amazing. What a city, and driving around the Kremlin and through Red Square was just awesome.

"To take Formula One out of its natural environment and show what we do to a completely new audience is great and this experience is certainly one I'll never forget.

"The attention we received from the media and the spectators was just incredible, massive! People really are fascinated by Formula One here. I'm convinced this was a really big boost for the sport, and for our team in particular, in Russia."