2020 F1 Bahrain Grand Prix: Qualifying - As it happened

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The first of two races in Bahrain takes us to the traditional Sakhir International Circuit for this weekend's Bahrain Grand Prix.

A regular fixture on the Formula 1 calendar since 2004, Bahrain's long straights and heavy braking zones often mean Sunday's race is a decent spectacle. 

Lewis Hamilton secured the 2020 drivers' title last time out in Turkey, with an impressive victory in changeable conditions. 

With both championships wrapped up, the battle for third in the constructors' championship is the centre of attention.

24 points separate Racing Point in third and Ferrari in sixth, with McLaren and Renault in between those two teams.

What to expect from this weekend?

Pirelli has nominated the C2, C3 and C4 tyres for this weekend - a step softer compared to the 2019 race.

Mario Isola, Pirelli's head of F1 said: “We get to experience something quite different during both weekends in Bahrain. Perhaps the most interesting challenge will be the Sakhir Grand Prix, as it’s not like any other circuit where we have raced before: even though it uses about half of the standard grand prix track.

“While there’s some simulation data already, we need to wait for real data from free practice to understand the exact effect on wear, degradation, and therefore strategy. On top of that, we’re bringing tyres that are a step softer than last year, which open up more opportunities in terms of strategy. During the first weekend drivers will run the new 2021 tyres on Friday with the C3 compound, getting a first proper taste of the rubber they will use next year. Formula 2 is also back for the final round alongside F1, in a pair of races with different tyre nominations that will decide the title.”