Lewis Hamilton has backed Mercedes for their unpopular but ultimately, necessary use of team orders during the Russian Grand Prix.In what was an enthralling battle of the Silver Arrows vs. Sebastian Vettel at Sochi, the Briton was forced to overcome a tactical error by his team after staying out one lap longer than the Ferrari driver and emerging just behind.A swift and decisive overtake at Turn 4 put Hamilton back ahead a lap later but the danger of the lurking Prancing Horse was still too much and eventually, chief strategist James Vowles and team boss Toto Wolff had no choice but to swap the cars.Holding off Vettel became Bottas' goal towards the end as the top three continued to run in close formation and, despite a rather hopeful suggestion to undo the switch on the final lap, that is how they would finish with Hamilton taking his fifth win in six races.“It is actually quite a difficult day because Valtteri did a fantastic job all weekend and he was a real gentleman to let me by,” Lewis, who now leads by 50 points said after the race. “Obviously he is not fighting for the championship, whereas we are.“It has just been such a great weekend for the team. The team have done such a great job to give us such an advantage on Ferrari and have a 1-2.

“Usually, we would be elated but I can understand how difficult it was for Valtteri but really he did a fantastic job and he deserved to win, but championship-wise, as a team we are trying to win both championships.

“I think today was a real team effort. Whilst it doesn’t feel spectacular, I know he is going to do great in races to come.”

For Bottas, however, while admitting it was a decision that was always likely to be made, the feeling of actually having to give up a victory remains raw.

“Difficult day, obviously a good result for us as a team as we got maximum points but personally as everyone saw it was quite a difficult race," he commented.

“For sure we always go through all the scenarios, all the facts. Lewis is fighting for the championship and we are fighting for the Constructors’ so we always have a plan.

“But it is always difficult to predict what will happen in the race.

“Is what it is.”

The only reason for optimism for the 29-year-old is once again his strongest race in Russia has provided a welcome boost in confidence following a tough stretch.

With Hamilton now effectively two races wins ahead of Sebastian Vettel too, it means chances are now he could wrap up the title in Mexico or Interlagos potentially clearing the way to fight for the elusive win in Abu Dhabi.