Although the bets didn’t go our way in the Chinese Grand Prix last time out, at least it provided us with plenty of action to talk about. Hopefully this weekend in Russia will be the same, but with a couple of winners to boot.

Sochi is a venue that is still in need of a defining race to remember, if it is to cement its place on the F1 calendar and in F1 hearts. Both races so far haven’t been too bad, with the Kimi Raikkonen and Valtteri Bottas collision last year being the most memorable event to date.

In my opinion the track has the possibility to create some good racing and hopefully we will see it this weekend. So if you fancy a bet this weekend, I have come up with some options that might be of some interest…

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ONE – When I was looking at the odds for this weekend, I was surprised to see Lewis Hamilton is still the favourite to win the grand prix in Sochi. His odds keep increasing with every race he doesn’t win, but maybe the bookies feel the same way I do – that he is due to win a race soon and hopefully it will be this weekend.

Lewis Hamilton to win: 5/4 (Bet365, Betway, Coral, Ladbrokes, SkyBet & Stan James)

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TWO – I think most people were hoping for a big improvement from McLaren Honda over the winter, but unfortunately it only looks like they have managed a modest one. However, at least they are competing just outside the points now. Fernando Alonso is due some luck and the McLaren should be strong around the twisty parts of the Sochi circuit, which should give the Spaniard a chance of some points on Sunday.

Fernando Alonso to finish in the points: 7/4 (Bet365, Betfair, Betway, Paddy Power & Stan James)

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THREE – As it is the Russian Grand Prix, I couldn’t have a bet without including Daniil Kyvat. The Russian had a brilliant race in China and with home support, I can see him continuing his form around Sochi. The Red Bull was impressive in China too, and I feel this track will suit it again.

Daniil Kyvat to finish in the top six: 6/5 (Betway & William Hill)

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Good luck to us all and remember to bet responsibly.

♦ Kyle Cumbers is a member of the NRF1 Podcast crew. Follow Kyle on Twitter @kcumbers