Mercedes were the surprise package at Australia’s season-opener, dominating pre-race favourites Ferrari. But in Bahrain on Friday the form book was very much reversed – and even world champion Lewis Hamilton couldn’t stay in touch with the scarlet cars.

Hamilton ended FP2 third fastest, but over half a second down on Sebastian Vettel and Charles Leclerc, as Ferrari rediscovered the speed that had seen them lead the way throughout pre-season testing.

“The Ferraris have been quick from the get-go and then they picked up a massive amount of pace so it’s completely different to what we’ve seen at the last race,” said Hamilton.

“We made some improvements going into P2 – on my side particularly I’ve been struggling all weekend with the balance of the car, but what you do is keep your head down and just keep working.

“I’m sure we’ll analyse things tonight and come back a little stronger tomorrow, but at the moment the Ferraris are quite far ahead.”