Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes struggle at Formula 1 testing in Bahrain
By Andrew BensonChief F1 writer
Last updated on
Testing was made more difficult by a sandstorm at Sakhir
Mercedes had a difficult start to three days of Formula 1 testing in Bahrain.
Lewis Hamilton and team-mate Valtteri Bottas ended the day 10th and 17th fastest and managed the lowest number of laps in the field.
Mercedes had problems with reliability and the handling of the car.
Conditions were difficult all day, with strong winds and a sandstorm making the track slippery throughout.
The worst period was at the start of the afternoon session, when the track was so dirty that cars were throwing up plumes of sand as they circulated the lap.