Russia's deputy prime minister thinks there could one day be a Russian F1 team on the grid.

Next year, Russian driver Daniil Kvyat could be joined on the grid not only by Sergey Sirotkin but another Russian driver, Artem Markelov, while Nikita Mazepin is also knocking on the door. Russian deputy prime minister Dmitry Kozak says motor racing is gaining in popularity in Russia and the next step in that progression could be a Russian F1 team.

"I know there are many lovers of motor sports in Russia and also wealthy businessmen who are ready to invest in the creation of a Russian Formula 1 team," Kozak told Tass news agency.

The news agency said Kozak even met with Russian businessmen at Sochi to discuss the formation of a Russian team.

"The result of our meeting with automakers should be the creation of a Russian Formula 1 car," he said. "We talked about 2024, but I do not think that it can be done in that time. But I think it can be done within a decade."

Former F1 chief executive Bernie Ecclestone backed the development.

"It's great that the number of Russian drivers is increasing," he said at Sochi, "but I hope there will be a Russian team. That would be even better."

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