P1racenews AI automatic summary:
“Everything feels dreadful,” said Lando Norris after Bahrain practice – but it’s a lot less dreadful if you’re in a McLaren
The change in track conditions at the Bahrain Grand Prix compared to pre-season testing just over a month ago has drastically affected the behavior of Formula 1 cars, especially in terms of tire grip and degradation rates. McLaren appears to be in a dominant position on the challenging Sakhir track, where rear tire performance is crucial. The McLarens have shown superior performance compared to Mercedes and Red Bull, with a clear advantage in single-lap pace. The Mercedes team seems to be a strong contender for the second-fastest position, with Ferrari struggling behind. McLaren’s ability to maintain better rear tire shape has given them a significant edge over their competitors. Each team’s performance is influenced by their strategies in dealing with tire degradation and maximizing aero efficiency.