It seems the Russian Prime Minister has found an even hotter (and manlier) pursuit than politics – taking out an F1 car on Sunday. Reaching speeds just shy of 240km/hr, Putin roared around in the Formula One race-savvy unit as part of a deal to bring the sport to Russia in 2014.

The agreement between the Prime Minister and F1 boss, Bernie Ecclestone included the televised test drive, presumably to elevate the motorsport’s profile in Russia in the lead up.

The publicity stunt has grabbed the attention of many and is certainly in keeping with the “active” image Putin has perpetuated throughout his term in office.

Instructed tentatively by a F1 team, a yellow-jumpsuit-clad Putin hopped into the matching racecar and proceeded to spin around (and almost out of control at one point) down an abandoned road just out of St. Petersburg.

At the conclusion of his little adventure he was told his max speed, to which he responded with a big grin and some pleased words.

From 2014 onwards, F1 grand prix races will be held at the same location as the imminent Winter Olympics, the Russian Black Sea resort.