Bahrain is a very different track to Australia, so we will face new challenges, including the increased temperature and track layout. There are a few things to discover but I know the track pretty well. There is a lot of stop and go so the car has to be very stable under braking and have good traction. I have good memories of Bahrain as I got my first and only pole position there in 2008 so I am looking forward to it. It can get very hot, so tyres will be an important topic to understand and how to best cope with them so let’s see how we go.

I am excited to go to Bahrain as it is a track I really like. I am looking forward to getting back behind the wheel of a Formula One car for my second Grand Prix. Racing in Bahrain is tough as it is a very aggressive circuit, with high tyre wear and temperatures which puts a lot of stress on the cars. All in all, I am ready for the challenge and eager to get back in the drivers’ seat.

Following the opening race of the 2019 season at Melbourne’s Grand Prix Circuit, we head to a more conventional track for round two. The circuit at Sakhir is a challenging combination of four evenly spaced straights and demanding corner sequences, including the high-speed chicane at turns five, six and seven, and the downhill hairpin at turn eight. Qualifying and the race take place in cooler conditions, despite the circuit being traditionally very tough on the rear tyres, with a constant threat of overheating. For 2019, Pirelli take the hardest of their available compounds which will offer additional challenges for the drivers and engineers alike. We look to build on our learning from Australia as we aim to maximise the performance of the current car whilst also continuing to investigate the most fruitful areas for future car development. Both drivers are familiar with the Bahrain International Circuit, with Robert racing there in 2010 and scoring a podium finish in 2008. George raced there last year in the opening race of his Championship-winning FIA Formula 2 season.