Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc Lead Practice Sessions at Bahrain Grand Prix

Manama:Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc emerged as the fastest drivers in the initial practice sessions for the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, held at the Sepang International Circuit.According to Bahrain News Agency, Verstappen clocked the quickest lap in the first session with a time of one minute 37.520 seconds for Red Bull Racing. Mercedes' George Russell followed 0.383 seconds behind, while Isack Hadjar, also from Red Bull, secured third place. Ferrari's Charles Leclerc finished fourth, trailed by Kimi Antonelli of Mercedes in fifth and Lewis Hamilton in sixth. Other top 10 finishers included drivers from Alpine, Racing Bulls, and Audi.In the second practice session, Leclerc posted the fastest time at one minute 37.528 seconds, narrowly ahead of Hadjar. Lando Norris of McLaren came third, with Verstappen and Hamilton completing the top five. The top 10 was rounded out by drivers from McLaren, Mercedes, Racing Bulls, and Alpine.The Formula 1 event continues on Saturday with a third practic e session, followed by qualifying to set the starting grid for Sunday's race. Spectators are encouraged to arrive early, and shuttle services are available from key locations.In the Formula Trophy Malaysia support series, Marco Manson and Juste Mulder led the practice sessions. The series will hold qualifying and two races over the weekend.Additional attractions include concerts by Axwell and Martin Garrix, and the Bahrain Village, which offers cultural experiences and traditional activities.