'Still a chance to save weekend' says Kvyat after missing Russia qualifying

Daniil Kvyat’s home race in Russia has been far from straightforward so far. Facing a back-of-the-grid start after a full power unit change ahead of the weekend, the Toro Rosso driver then suffered from a fuel system issue in FP1, before being stopped again in final practice, this time by a problem with his Honda engine.

With little reason to rush a power unit change, Toro Rosso opted to sit Kvyat out of qualifying and focus on Sunday’s Grand Prix in Sochi.

“It hasn’t been a very smooth weekend so far, but the most important day is tomorrow," said Kvyat. "We knew we were going to start from the back but it’s still a shame to miss Qualifying in my home race.

"These things happen, we just need to accept it and try to do our best tomorrow for a strong race. I never give in, there’s still a chance to save this weekend. I’m a bit short on mileage because of the issues I’ve had, but I know the track, so I’ll try and find a good rhythm in the race.”

Kvyat has scored points in only one of four previous races on home soil.