Bahrain Grand Prix 2018 - Race Schedule and Countdown

Sebastian Vettel made it two wins from two races to start the 2018 season, dominating the Bahrain Grand Prix from pole position to extend his early championship lead over Lewis Hamilton. The Ferrari driver controlled the race under the Sakhir floodlights, delivering a commanding performance that suggested Ferrari might finally end their decade-long championship drought.

Vettel led from lights to flag, managing his pace expertly and never coming under serious threat. Valtteri Bottas secured second place for Mercedes after a strong drive, while Hamilton completed the podium in third despite struggling with tire management and grip throughout the race. The result put Vettel 17 points clear at the top of the championship standings after just two rounds, with Ferrari looking ominous as they demonstrated superior race pace at two very different circuits.

The race is best remembered for Romain Grosjean's terrifying crash on the opening lap. The Haas driver was launched into a violent flip after contact with Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly in Turn 3, with his car landing upside down and bursting into flames. Grosjean escaped with minor injuries thanks to the Halo device, which prevented his head from striking the barrier. The incident provided another validation of the controversial safety device in only its second race. Valtteri Bottas set the fastest lap, while Charles Leclerc impressed with a seventh-place finish for Sauber, showcasing the talent that would earn him a Ferrari seat for 2019.