F1-EL2: Rosberg ahead of Hamilton in Bahrain

The Mercedes took the lead in testing for the Bahrain GP. While the second session was played after dark, Nico Rosberg set the benchmark time in 1'34"647 with the soft tires, a difference of almost 2 seconds per lap with the medium tires. His teammate Lewis Hamilton is the closest with a tenth behind.

La Team Ferrari is half a second behind with Kimi Räikkönen ahead Sebastian Vettel which caused an interruption following a slight collision with the Force India of Sergio Pérez, damaging the SF15-T's front wing after suffering brake problems (see: several pilots under investigation). The Maranello cars nevertheless showed promising performances over the long stints.

Valtteri Bottas place first Williams in the top five ahead Daniel Ricciardo and Pastor Maldonado. Felipe Nasr, Daniil Kvyat and Felipe Massa complete the top ten. After handing over his driving to Jolyon Palmer in the first session, Romain Grosjean achieved the 13th time between Fernando Alonso et Carlos Sainz Jr.

Toro Rosso remained behind in this session since Max Verstappen only finished in 16th position. Mechanical problems continued for Jenson Button who was only able to complete around fifteen laps.

The final practice session for the Bahrain GP will take place this April 18 at 14 p.m. and will be broadcast live on Canal+ Décalé.