SOCHI, October 10. /TASS/. The program of Russia's inaugural Formula 1 Grand Prix race started at the Sochi Autodrome with the first free practice session on Friday morning.

Two Russians, Daniil Kvyat, 20, from Toro Rosso and Sauber test driver Sergey Sirotkin, 19, are participating.

Russia’s Marussia team will be represented by only one pilot, Max Chilton. Last week, Marussia Formula 1 driver Jules Bianchi was taken to hospital following a crash during the Japanese Grand Prix.

Bianchi is in coma and his doctors refrain from making public announcements about his condition, but, according to earlier media reports, the young French racer is in critical condition.

Earlier reports said American driver Alexander Rossi could replace Bianchi. However, the Russian team later decided that only one bolide is to participate in the race.