Lewis Hamilton beat Mercedes team-mate Nico Rosberg in a thrillingly close battle at the Bahrain Grand Prix, with the finale coming down to a 10-lap sprint after a late safety car period wiped out Hamilton's 10-second advantage. On the faster soft tyre, Rosberg had the advantage, but Hamilton held him off to the end with aggressive defence.

Mercedes were true to their word to let their drivers race for victory untroubled by team orders. Rosberg started from pole, but Hamilton made a better start and took the lead at the first corner.

Secure his second victory within a week after his win in Sepang, Malaysia, Hamilton closes his deficit to Rosberg in the championship to 11 points, following the Englishman's retirement from the opening race of the season in Australia where Rosberg won.