Hamilton: Ferrari faster in racing conditions

Only 5th yesterday in EL2 after being notably hampered in a fast lap by Nico Hulkenberg, Lewis Hamilton did not take the top 3 in free practice on the Bahrain track as usual.

The three-time British world champion, however, admits to having completed his program without any problems with the Mercedes W08, particularly in EL2 conditions. “It was a pretty normal Friday,” comments Hamilton.

It was incredibly hot from the start, with some of the toughest conditions – both physically and in terms of working with the tires. We managed to manage this.

The weather was much cooler in the afternoon, which gave us a better picture of qualifying, as well as the race. I was able to get a better understanding of where the car is in FP2. »

A new duel with Ferrari ?

Si Red Bull Racing showed himself to his advantage yesterday in free practice, Daniel Ricciardo coming within a tenth of the SF70H's best time of Sebastian Vettel, Lewis Hamilton believes that it is once again Scuderia Ferrari which will offer the best response to the Mercedes W08.

“It was very close, with Ferrari in front. At race pace, they seem two tenths faster, so I'm waiting for a big battle tomorrow and also on Sunday. We will work as hard as we can to try to close the gap. »