Sakhir ready for the battle
Sakhir : Lewis Hamilton goes into this weekend’s Bahrain Grand Prix determined to build momentum in his bid for a fourth world title and to keep his battle with Sebastian Vettel as friendly as possible.
After three highly competitive and often acrimonious years competing with now retired 2016 champion and former Mercedes team-mate Nico Rosberg, the Englishman is relishing a different kind of challenge this year.
Instead of fighting his Mercedes partner, newly-recruited Valtteri Bottas, he is in a scrap for glory with four-time champion Vettel of Ferrari.
“We are working so hard and so are Ferrari,” said Hamilton, fresh from his victory in China last weekend.
“I am expecting a very tough weekend in Bahrain where they are likely to be even stronger than in China because their car works, in general, better in hot conditions than cold.
“We made the most of our chance last weekend and we have to work hard to try and stay in front this time.”
Vettel has been just as generous as Hamilton in heaping praise on his rival and the pair have so far served up one win each amid much mutual back-slapping and respect.
“You have to take any advantage you can get,” said Hamilton, ahead of this Sunday’s floodlit night race at the Sakhir International Circuit where he will be seeking his third win at the track in four years, following Rosberg’s triumph last year.
“That is why we are doing so much now, working so hard. It is so important early on, as I learned last year. Hopefully, it will pay dividends at the end. I really have to try and make sure I finish ahead again in the next race.”
Hamilton is seeking also to score another pole position to extend his run to seven in succession.
“I have six in a row and Ayrton Senna had eight in a row -– and I want to catch Senna. That’s even more of a challenge.”
The high temperatures expected at the Bahrain track are sure to play a major part in the outcome as this year’s new formula of heavier, fatter and faster cars create new levels of wear on the broader tyres.
“I enjoy that fact that we are racing together in these cars,” added Hamilton, of his battle with Vettel, who won the season opening race in Melbourne in March.
“I think right now we are a good match and the sportsmanship is amazing. When I win he enjoys it and when I lose it is the same as I can acknowledge it too. We are both giving respect and that is a great place to be.”
The two main championship contenders should be chased by their team-mates Bottas and Kimi Raikkonen with Red Bull, who improved their form in China, pushing hard as the third-fastest team.
Following his astonishing drive from 16th on the grid to finish third in a rain-affected race, Max Verstappen will be hoping to stay ahead of team-mate Australian Daniel Ricciardo.
Behind them, much attention will focus on the form and future of two-time champion and three-time Bahrain winner Fernando Alonso of McLaren who will miss the Monaco Grand Prix next month to take part in the Indianapolis 500.
Vegas, Like Mike Live!
While the action on track begins today, so does the highly anticipated concert series of the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix.
Some of the world’s most popular artists are performing in BIC on back-to-back nights.
The music kicks off on Friday night with three fantastic live shows of electronic dance music.
Relentless female DJ MATTN kicks things off, to be followed by melodic house music champion Klingande.
That will then set the stage for the highlight of the night, which will be superstar DJs Dimitri Vegas and Like Mike.
Born Cedric Steinmyller but best known by his nickname, Klingande has been breathing new life into the electronic music world with his impeccable productions and uplifting sound, cementing his reputation as one of the most refreshing and original producers around today.
Rising Belgian female DJ MATTN, named Anouk Matton will also be on stage.
All those with tickets to the Bahrain Grand Prix will be able to enjoy all the stunning live performances at no extra cost.
Entertainment for the whole family
Race-goers will also have lots to do along BIC’s Formula 1 Village vending area.
Among the many attractions are Dinosaurs and Ice Age Tent, a Haunted Mansion, a wide variety of Roaming Acts and shows, and plenty of kinds’ entertainment.
Meanwhile, a series of fantastic shows will be taking place all weekend long, as well as a wide array of international roaming acts.
For the kids, there will be outdoor activities such as a Sensory Zone, Mumbo Tumbo Drum Beats, Badge Caricaturists, Face Painting and Pop the Balloon Man. There are also workshops to keep them busy and entertained all throughout the Grand Prix weekend.
Standings
Drivers
1. Sebastian Vettel (GER/Ferrari) 43 pts,
2. Lewis Hamilton (GBR/Mercedes) 43,
3. Max Verstappen (NED/Red Bull) 25,
4. Valtteri Bottas (FIN/Mercedes) 23,
5. Kimi Raikkonen (FIN/Ferrari) 22,
6. Daniel Ricciardo (AUS/Red Bull) 12,
7. Carlos Sainz (ESP/Toro Rosso) 10,
8. Felipe Massa (BRA/Williams) 8,
9. Sergio Perez (MEX/Force India) 8,
10. Kevin Magnussen (DEN/Haas) 4
Constructors
1. Mercedes 66 pts,
2. Ferrari 65,
3. Red Bull 37,
4. Toro Rosso 12,
5. Force India 10,
6. Williams 8
Race fans treated to Pit Walk
Scores of fans of all ages turned up yesterday evening for the Formula 1 Pit-Lane Walk.
Those on hand were able to witness teams preparing for this weekend’s events, including work in their garages as well as conducting practice pit stops.
The Pit Walk is an annual tradition for all ticket holders to the Bahrain Grand Prix.
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