LEWIS HAMILTON believes Mercedes finally have "a car they can fight with" qualifying for today's Bahrain Grand Prix showed this season may not be a one-horse race.
While world champion Max Verstappen secured pole position, the times were closer than they have been in years, with Ferrari's Charles Leclerc just 0.228 seconds behind.
Mercedes' George Russell will start third and Hamilton ninth, just 0.225 seconds behind his team-mate.
Hamilton, right, who has one season left at Mercedes before joining Ferrari, said: "George's position and pace highlights and is a testament to the team - how hard everyone has worked over the winter.
"It's amazing to have a car we can fight with. It really unites the fire and flame within us drivers.
Esta historia es de la edición March 02, 2024 de Daily Express.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 9,000 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor ? Conectar
Esta historia es de la edición March 02, 2024 de Daily Express.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 9,000 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor? Conectar
Bold Timber still Gunning four a season of glory
JURRIEN TIMBER is still eyeing a clean sweep of trophies, despite the odds stacking up against Arsenal.
'YOUNG IS MAKING ME FEEL OLD'
Dyche braced to face Ashley's son
Willock packs punch in absence of Bruno
MAGPIES CAN THRIVE WITHOUT GUIMARAES
POTTER IS SET FOR HAMMERS HOT SEAT
GRAHAM POTTER will be unveiled as West Ham's new manager this morning after Julen Lopetegui was sacked following just 22 games in charge. Potter, who has been out of work since being dismissed by Chelsea in April 2023, has agreed a two-and-a-half year contract with the Hammers.
Davies urging Posh kids to relax
FORMER Peterborough academy graduate Simon Davies has told Darren Ferguson's youngsters to play without fear at Everton in the FA Cup tonight.
Fans make a mockery of Mikel's ball issues
MIKEL ARTETA has been mocked by Carabao Cup organisers after his bizarre ball moan.
BERGVALL'S SMASH & GRAB
Swede's late strike gives Spurs a slight edge in tie
RFU deal delays surgery decision for Feyi-Waboso
ROB BAXTER revealed decision-making over Immanuel Feyi-Waboso's recovery from a shoulder injury has been complicated by a new RFU player deal.
ICE BERG SINKS SLOT
Reds boss furious after Lucas is let off the hook
United banking on a Mainoo compromise
United are confident they can reach an agreement with Kobbie Mainoo over a new long-term deal.