Sochi Sep 28 (IANS) Russia s Artem Markelov a test and development driver for Renault will replace Spaniard Carlos Sainz Jr during the first free practice session on Friday ahead of the Russian Grand Prix.
It will be Markelov s first official appearance as a Renault Formula One driver and he said he was honoured to be able to show what he had learned reports Efe.
Markelov will also participate this weekend in the second-last race of the FIA Formula 2 championship in which he stands 5th in standings after wins in Bahrain Monaco and Austria.

--IANS gau/sed