The Mercedes domination was complete in Bahrain, with Rosberg and Hamilton posting the fastest two laps. They also posted their best times on the same lap, just a couple of tours before the end of the race. Meanwhile, despite Sergio Pérez making his way on to the podium, it was Nico Hülkenberg who was the third fastest driver on track. The Mexican himself was down in seventh.

Surprises further down the order are Fernando Alonso, who was the twelfth fastest driver of the day, and Valtteri Bottas, who was half a second slower than his teammate's best.