F1 Bahrain GP: Norris Tops FP1 as Championship Heats Up… Read more
Formula One continues its packed triple-header with the 2025 Bahrain Grand Prix, marking the fourth round of the season. The teams arrived at the Sakhir International Circuit just days after a dramatic race in Japan, where Red Bull’s Max Verstappen emerged victorious. The F1 circus now shifts its focus to the desert, with the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix up next on the calendar.
Championship leader Lando Norris made a strong statement in Friday’s first free practice session (FP1), clocking the fastest time of 1:33.204 for McLaren. He was followed closely by Pierre Gasly in the Alpine, with Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton and Williams’ Alex Albon also showing promising pace. The session featured six rookies, with Williams’ junior driver Luke Browning emerging as the quickest among them.
The buzz off-track was just as intense. FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem made his first appearance at a Grand Prix in 2025, joining key stakeholders in Bahrain for a pivotal meeting on the future of F1 engine regulations. Discussions reportedly included a possible return to simpler, louder V10 engines, as the sport weighs its long-term technological direction. However, Ben Sulayem’s presence came under a cloud of scrutiny amid ongoing questions about his leadership and the direction the FIA is heading under his presidency.
Meanwhile, an entertaining moment from FP1 inspired a light-hearted caption contest, with a humorous imagined quote from Max Verstappen: “Wow, really, you’re worse than Checo?” Fans were also invited to contribute their own caption ideas for a candid shot of Williams team boss James Vowles speaking with Sauber’s new principal Jonathan Wheatley.
Elsewhere, F1 was not immune to the broader geopolitical landscape. Ongoing tensions between the U.S. and China, including the continuation of automotive tariffs despite a recent rollback on other duties by President Donald Trump, are raising concerns. These tariffs could impact global supply chains, including motorsport operations, as teams evaluate how to navigate these economic challenges.
Back on the ground in Bahrain, Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz avoided disciplinary action after swearing during a press conference the previous day. The incident prompted discussion on the sport’s evolving stance on language used by drivers in public settings.
As FP2 approaches, the championship battle continues to intensify. Norris currently leads both the drivers’ standings and is helping McLaren stay atop the constructors’ table. With pressure mounting on Red Bull, all eyes will be on whether McLaren can maintain its momentum through the weekend.
