F1 TESTING DAY 2: Hamilton Sets Stunning Time as Hulkenberg and Piastri clash in Bahrain test…read more
The second day of F1 testing got off to a disrupted start, with a light drizzle forcing drivers to pit and causing a nearly hour-long delay. However, once the rain stopped, Lewis Hamilton wasted no time in getting back to work, continuing to lead the timesheets with an impressive performance.
Hamilton, who had set the fastest lap of testing on Day 1 with a 1:30.080, improved by nearly seven-tenths of a second to clock a 1:29.379. This time was not only the fastest of the morning session but also just two-tenths slower than Max Verstappen’s 2024 pole-time of 1:29.179.
The British driver, who is entering his first season with Ferrari, continued to impress on the C3 tires, which will serve as the soft compound for qualifying at the Bahrain GP in April. His performance runs were a testament to his dedication and focus, as he worked tirelessly to fine-tune his car’s setup.
Hamilton’s teammate, Carlos Sainz, also had a strong morning session, finishing third fastest and within a second of Hamilton’s time. This performance will undoubtedly boost the team’s morale and provide a welcome confidence boost ahead of the new season.
The session was not without its incidents, however. A minor collision occurred between Nico Hulkenberg and Oscar Piastri at Turn 8, but fortunately, both drivers were able to continue without sustaining significant damage.
As the drivers prepare for the afternoon session, there will be a change in the driver lineup, with every driver swapping over except for Sainz and Liam Lawson, who will enjoy a full day’s running. Hamilton will next be in the car tomorrow afternoon, having taken both morning stints across the two days thus far.
The session ended under a planned red flag, allowing the FIA to complete a routine systems test. The drivers also formed up for practice starts on the grid, providing a glimpse into the excitement that awaits fans in the upcoming season.
With Hamilton continuing to impress and Ferrari showing promising signs, the stage is set for an thrilling season of F1 racing. As the teams and drivers continue to fine-tune their cars and strategies, fans can expect a closely contested and unpredictable championship battle.
