FORMULA 1: Rosberg Leads In Japan Opener

Rosberg, looking to bounce back from the disappointment of losing his F1 championship lead to Hamilton last time out in Singapore, was fastest by three tenths from Hamilton during the first half an hour of running on the extra set of hard Pirelli tyres made available to all drivers.

Hamilton got closer as both drivers went quicker during the second part of the session, but crucially locked up at the hairpin on his fastest lap and fell 0.151 seconds shy of denying Rosberg the top spot.
Fernando Alonso was best of the rest in third, just over half a second shy of Rosberg's benchmark.

FORMULA ONE: Rosberg Did A Better Work Than Me Says Hamilton

Hamilton led a Mercedes one-two after a thrilling battle with Rosberg, who attempted to pass his team-mate several times during the race.

Rosberg had the faster, softer tyre in the final part of the event, and Hamilton admitted he had to work very hard to keep the German at bay. The former world champion accepted Rosberg was the faster of the two Mercedes drivers.

"Winning the race is the greatest thing, you are happy, but deep down inside I didn't have the pace today," said Hamilton.
Bahrain GP report: Hamilton beats Rosberg