Vettel sure there's “a lot left on the table” after Bahrain F1 practice

Sebastian Vettel is confident he has more pace in hand after Friday Formula 1 practice for the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix.

After completing the fewest amount of laps out of any driver in pre-season testing, Friday practice was another opportunity for Vettel to acclimate at his new team.

The German ended second practice 14th fastest overall, just under 0.4s off the pace set by Aston Martin teammate Lance Stroll.

Reflecting on his first two F1 practice sessions in 'racing green', Vettel said: “Well, busy! We tried to get the most out of the time that we had. I think every lap still helps me to get used to the car and get into a rhythm. I’m trying a lot of things, I think there’s still a lot to try and a lot to learn but it seems like fun.

“I feel there’s still a lot left on the table just to get used to the car and being able to squeeze the limit. Right now it seems a bit up and down - sometimes I’m really good and other corners I’m far out, but that’s normal. Hopefully come tomorrow with more consistent running I’m able to squeeze the limit everywhere.”

Stroll ended FP2 just inside the top ten, over 0.5s shy of pacesetter Max Verstappen.

The Canadian described the midfield battle as "very competitive" in Bahrain, with one second separating the top 16 drivers at the end of second practice.

“Yeah it felt good," Stroll said. “Great to be back racing and really looking forward to tomorrow and Sunday.

“Yeah it was very windy, it’s a very competitive field, so I’m sure tomorrow’s going to be very interesting.

“We definitely have our work cut out for us tonight. We’ve got to think about what we can do improve the car and come back stronger tomorrow.”