Hamilton Dominates as Rain Disrupts Bahrain Pre-Season Test
Lewis Hamilton topped the charts in the second morning of Formula 1’s pre-season test in Bahrain, setting the pace with a 1m29.670s lap time. However, the session was filled with interruptions and limited running due to the rare occurrence of rain, which significantly impacted the teams’ plans. Hamilton, driving for Mercedes, managed to break into the 1m29s bracket, a first for the test, just before the rain intensified, further complicating the proceedings.
Rain Dampens Early Running
The morning session began with a cautious approach as teams sought to gather initial data using various aerodynamic measuring devices. The early stages saw a trickle of activity, with teams balancing between gathering baseline data and transitioning to more representative runs. However, the session hit a significant snag when early drizzle escalated into rain, causing a near-hour-long hiatus in on-track running. The wet conditions led to wide moments for Oscar Piastri and Carlos Sainz at Turn 11, both experiencing snaps of oversteer. Only Aston Martin and Haas had prepared for such weather changes with intermediate tyres, but Haas was the only team to send a car out, with Esteban Ocon briefly testing the damp-track conditions.
Track Conditions Improve, Hamilton Shines
As conditions gradually improved, Hamilton capitalized on the bettering track to set a new benchmark with a 1m29.379s lap, outpacing his earlier best by three tenths. George Russell, Hamilton’s teammate, also saw a significant improvement, briefly going second fastest with a 1m29.778s lap. The improved track conditions allowed for more representative runs, with Sainz focusing on a long-run simulation. However, the rain’s resurgence interrupted his efforts, and he is expected to resume his long-run tests in the afternoon session.
Mixed Fortunes for the Field
Pierre Gasly and Fernando Alonso rounded out the top six, with Gasly’s performance particularly notable given the challenging conditions. Yuki Tsunoda, after starting the session with aero correlation work, managed to get within a tenth of Alonso’s final time. Oscar Piastri, despite limited running, eventually found his way up to seventh place but faced a rain-induced slide at Turn 11. Liam Lawson’s session was cut short due to a water pressure issue on his Red Bull, leaving him with only 28 laps, the lowest of the morning. Nico Hulkenberg and Esteban Ocon completed the order, with both drivers showing resilience in the evolving conditions.
Teams Adapt and Push On
The disrupted morning session highlighted the teams’ adaptability and the importance of being prepared for unexpected conditions. While the rain significantly limited the amount of valuable track time, teams still managed to gather crucial data and insights. Hamilton’s dominance and the resilience shown by several drivers underscored the competitive spirit of the pre-season test. Despite the interruptions, the session provided valuable lessons and set the stage for the afternoon, where teams are expected to continue exploring the limits of their cars under more favorable conditions.
Looking Ahead to the Afternoon Session
With the morning session now in the books, all eyes turn to the afternoon, where teams will aim to make up for lost time and continue their pre-season preparations. The unpredictable weather adds an extra layer of challenge, but it also offers valuable experience in managing and adapting to changing track conditions. As the day progresses, fans and observers will be keen to see how the teams and drivers perform, with a particular focus on those who faced early setbacks. The pre-season test in Bahrain continues to be a critical phase, setting the tone for the upcoming Formula 1 season.
