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Mercedes Struggles in Free Practice at the Bahrain Grand Prix

Tyre degradation was the main challenge during FP1 and FP2 as teams adapted to the abrasive surface. Despite bringing a major upgrade package, Mercedes placed in the midfield, while Red Bull's Max Verstappen topped FP1.

Automatically summarised by AI from Autosport

Tyre degradation was the main issue during Free Practice 1 and Free Practice 2, with teams and drivers continuing to adapt to the highly abrasive surface.

Red Bull appeared to be the most comfortable on the track, with Max Verstappen setting the fastest time to top the FP1 session.

In contrast, the Mercedes duo of George Russell and Kimi Antonelli remained in the midfield after the day's running. Despite Mercedes bringing a major upgrade package this weekend, the team's performance fell short of expectations.

Motorsport · Autosport · Published 21:11 · 02 Oct 2026

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