Nico Rosberg finished fastest in both free practice sessions on Friday in Bahrain, and admitted he has been eagerly waiting to get back into the car after taking victory in Australia two weeks ago.
The German Mercedes AMG PETRONAS driver’s time of 1m32.294s was half a second clear of team-mate Lewis Hamilton in opening practice, and then set a blistering time of 1m31.001s during second practice under the lights to finish 0.241s ahead of the reigning World Champion.
Rosberg felt the first day in the car has been an encouraging one for both himself and the team, and is ready for an exciting weekend as he strives to win his fifth consecutive Grand Prix on Sunday.
“I couldn’t wait to get back in the car after a great weekend in Melbourne and I felt really good out there,” said Rosberg. “It’s been an encouraging first day for the team.
“We were very quick on one lap and also on the longer runs, so I’m really looking forward to qualifying and the race. I like this track very much.
“The atmosphere is great and it looks really spectacular driving under the lights in the evening. It should be an exciting weekend!”
