Lewis Hamilton has suggested that the Russian Grand Prix is "not such a bad race" to start from second.
The Briton won at Sochi last year after overtaking Mercedes teammate Nico Rosberg on the opening lap.
Hamilton is hoping for a repeat performance in 2015, despite finishing behind his championship rival in qualifying after running wide on his final flying lap.
He told reporters: "I did go for my second lap I just did not finish it. I made a mistake at Turn 13. A difficult weekend for everyone, but Nico did a great job with his lap.
"Overall I am very happy and it is great for the team. This is not such a bad race for P2."
Rosberg's pole position is only his third in 15 races this season, with Hamilton claiming the other 12.
