Max Verstappen temporarily took the spotlight off team boss Christian Horner by putting his Red Bull on pole position for the opening round of the new Formula One season in Bahrain.

The build-up to the first race of the campaign has totally been overshadowed by allegations whirling around Horner. The 50-year-old was exonerated by Red Bull Racing parent’s company, Red Bull GmbH, following an internal probe into “inappropriate behaviour” against a female colleague on Wednesday – before hundreds of WhatsApp messages appearing to be written by him were leaked to the F1 world a day later.

• Christian Horner – latest: Red Bull boss returns to F1 grid after WhatsApp texts leaked

However, Horner, who has always denied any wrongdoing and remains in his role, was on the world champions’ pit wall here in Bahrain to see Verstappen claim his first pole of a season in which he is expected to romp to his fourth consecutive world championship in his all-conquering Red Bull machine.

But the triple world champion was made to work for the 33rd pole of his career under the thousands of bulbs that light up the Sakhir Circuit with Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc second, two tenths back.

Follow updates from the Bahrain Grand Prix with The Independent:

F1 Bahrain Grand Prix 2024 LIVE

• Max Verstappen on pole for the Bahrain Grand Prix; Leclerc 2nd; Russell 3rd

• Click HERE for the top-10

• Daniel Ricciardo knocked out in Q2, also out: Tsunoda, Stroll, Albon, Magnussen

• Pierre Gasly knocked out in Q1, also out: Bottas, Zhou, Sargeant, Ocon

• Carlos Sainz quickest in third practice; Alonso 2nd; Verstappen 3rd

• SEASON PREDICTIONS: World champion, biggest shock, and who will replace Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes?

• Lewis Hamilton was quickest in second practice on Thursday; Russell 2nd; Alonso 3rd

• Christian Horner - latest: Red Bull F1 boss in paddock after texts allegedly leaked

F1 Bahrain Grand Prix qualifying: TOP-10

17:09 , Kieran Jackson

1. Max Verstappen

2. Charles Leclerc

3. George Russell

4. Carlos Sainz

5. Sergio Perez

6. Fernando Alonso

7. Lando Norris

8. Oscar Piastri

9. Lewis Hamilton

10. Nico Hulkenberg

Charles Leclerc annoyed with Ferrari for ‘compromising’ final stage of Bahrain GP qualifying

18:16 , Kieran Jackson

Charles Leclerc showed his exasperation with Ferrari at “compromising” his final runs in qualifying for the Bahrain Grand Prix.

Leclerc was right in contention for top spot in the first qualifying session of the season, alongside team-mate Carlos Sainz and Verstappen.

However, the Monegasque only finished second in the end – two-tenths of a second slower than Verstappen – and was “disappointed” given pole position was within his reach.

Leclerc referenced an earlier team error in Q1, when his Ferrari team unnecessarily sent him out on a new set of soft tyres, meaning he only had one set for his final two runs of Q3.

Full piece below:

Leclerc annoyed with Ferrari for ‘compromising’ final stage of Bahrain GP qualifying

Fernando Alonso after qualifying sixth for tomorrow’s race:

18:02 , Kieran Jackson

Lando Norris after qualifying P7

17:47 , Kieran Jackson

“A mistake in turn one and turn four, one-tenth. It was four positions. Mixed feelings, the car got better and better and came alive. I just didn’t do what I should have done.

“If you told me potential to be P2 for this weekend, I’d have been surprised - it was possible.”

George Russell after qualifying third:

17:38 , Kieran Jackson

“Max is still some way out in front...

“Huge amount of work. Time will tell tomorrow if we’ve made a big step forward, I think it will be a close fight between everybody other than Max!

“Red Bull are doing such a strong job. If there’s an opportunity to take the lead we’ll go for it, but really it’s about the battle for second.”

Charles Leclerc after finishing P2 in qualifying:

17:27 , Kieran Jackson

“I’m a bit disappointed. We did a good qualifying, it’s been a tricky weekend. I found the sweet spot in qualifying. Unfortunately we put on two sets of new softs which compromised a bit Q3.

“I think we lost a little bit of rhythm with the used set in Q3, then you have to re-adapt to the tyres, but overall a solid quali.

“I’m confident we did a step forward, we have to wait and see tomorrow. We really think Red Bull is still ahead by quite a bit in the race.”

Max Verstappen after securing pole position:

17:16 , Kieran Jackson

“A lot of fun, the track had a lot of grip. Very happy to be on pole - to be honest it was a little bit unexpected but luckily the car came to us.

“We needed to fine tune a few little things to get that balance. We could really push with the car and another step in qualifying.

“The race is going to be close as well. I’m confident we can have a strong race!”

F1 Bahrain Grand Prix qualifying: Max Verstappen

17:04 , Kieran Jackson

“I think we did very well in that qualifying, we made the most of it!”

F1 Bahrain Grand Prix qualifying: Max Verstappen on pole position!

17:03 , Kieran Jackson

It’s Max once again!

Verstappen improves to set a 1:29:179, 0.228 secs quicker than Charles Leclerc in second.

George Russell does brilliantly to get up to P3 - three-tenths off - with Carlos Sainz in fourth.

5-10: Perez, Alonso, Norris, Piastri, Hamilton, Hulkenberg

F1 Bahrain Grand Prix qualifying: Fernando Alonso up to third!

16:59 , Kieran Jackson

Provisional P3 for Fernando Alonso - 0.121 secs off Max Verstappen on provisional pole.

Solid lap. Where will he be by the end?

All nine other cars coming out on track now for their second runs - this is it! Two minutes left...

F1 Bahrain Grand Prix qualifying: Fernando Alonso did not set a lap

16:55 , Kieran Jackson

The Spaniard did not bother!

Instead, it looks like he’ll set a lap - with the track to himself - right now on a new set of soft tyres....

F1 Bahrain Grand Prix qualifying: Max Verstappen top after first set of runs in Q3!

16:54 , Kieran Jackson

But only just!

Max Verstappen top with a 1:29:421 - only 0.059 secs faster than Charles Leclerc, who was on used soft tyres!

George Russell P3, 0.182 secs behind Verstappen, with Carlos Sainz in fourth - within two-tenths of Verstappen. Oh it’s close!

5-10: Norris, Perez, Hamilton, Hulkenberg, Piastri, Alonso

They’ll all re-group in the garage before the finale! Six minutes left...

F1 Bahrain Grand Prix qualifying: Nico Hulkenberg first car out on track

16:50 , Kieran Jackson

The Haas driver getting on with it, slowly followed by the rest of the field.

McLarens of Norris and Piastri on used set of softs for the first run, as is Leclerc...

F1 Bahrain Grand Prix qualifying: Q3 underway!

16:49 , Kieran Jackson

Here we go then!

12 minutes, 10 drivers, 1 pole position - who will be on top spot for the first race of the season?!

It’s definitely looking tight between Red Bull and Ferrari. Can anyone stop Max Verstappen?

10 drivers involved: Leclerc, Verstappen, Sainz, Hamilton, Alonso, Hulkenberg, Russell, Perez, Norris, Piastri

F1 Bahrain Grand Prix qualifying: Daniel Ricciardo is out in Q2!

16:43 , Kieran Jackson

It was hairy - again! - for both Mercedes cars, who go up from the bottom-five at the last moment, into the top-10.

It means Lance Stroll and Yuki Tsunoda miss out at the death!

And what about Nico Hulkenberg for Haas - up in P6!

Bottom-five (11-15) and out in Q2: Tsunoda, Stroll, Albon, Ricciardo, Magnussen

Top-3: Leclerc, Verstappen, Sainz. Game on between Ferrari and Red Bull.

Time for Q3!

F1 Bahrain Grand Prix qualifying: Cars queuing in the pit lane

16:37 , Kieran Jackson

Leclerc: “The guys in front of Carlos are stopping, we are not allowed to stop usually.”

We had this farce a lot last year... just get on with it guys!

All the field heading out for their second flying lap... three minutes left of Q2....

F1 Bahrain Grand Prix qualifying: Max Verstappen fastest in Q2

16:35 , Kieran Jackson

OK, there’s your benchmark folks.

It’s only Q2, but Max Verstappen puts in a 1:29:374 - on new softs - which is 0.567 secs ahead of Lando Norris.

In-between them is Sergio Perez, also half-a-second down on his team-mate.

A better lap from Lewis Hamilton, in P6. Russell P9.

As for the bottom, Daniel Ricciardo heading out at the moment.

Current bottom-five, (11-15): Hulkenberg, Tsunoda, Ricciardo, Albon, Magnussen

F1 Bahrain Grand Prix qualifying: Lando Norris goes fastest!

16:32 , Kieran Jackson

First quali lap in the 1:29s - set by Lando Norris with a 1:29:941.

What can Max Verstappen do?

Oscar Piastri currently P2, with Charles Leclerc P3.

Most of the field finishing their first laps now of Q2...

F1 Bahrain Grand Prix qualifying: All cars out aside from Red Bull and Mercedes

16:29 , Kieran Jackson

Red Bull and Mercedes just taking their time here, as the rest of the field go out on track for their first flying laps...

11 minutes to go...

F1 Bahrain Grand Prix qualifying: Q2 underway!

16:27 , Kieran Jackson

No cars out on track straight away.

15 minutes, where the next five slowest cars will be eliminated - who will make the top-10 shootout?!

George Russell, incidentally, referred to the stewards for driving “too slowly” on his out-lap. Will probably just be a warning at most...

F1 Bahrain Grand Prix qualifying: Pierre Gasly

16:22 , Kieran Jackson

“Disaster out lap.”

“It’s only race 1, I have faith in you guys.”

Despair for the Frenchman, who will start the Bahrain Grand Prix in last place for the second year running. Nice message at the end though.

F1 Bahrain Grand Prix qualifying: Lewis Hamilton just about safe!

16:20 , Kieran Jackson

It was a bit hairy for the Mercedes driver - but he’s safe in P10! He was down in 18th...

A nightmare for Alpine - they make up the bottom two spots.

16-20 (and out in Q1): Bottas, Zhou, Sargeant, Ocon, Gasly

A bit nervy for Hamilton, and for Ricciardo in P13.

The Haas’ of Hulkenberg and Magnussen were 14th and 15th.

Top-3: Sainz, Stroll, Verstappen - not that it matters yet.

F1 Bahrain Grand Prix qualifying: Cars now heading back out for their final runs

16:15 , Kieran Jackson

Right then. Work to do for the bottom-five and the likes of Hamilton and Ricciardo, who may well have to improve on their times.

Current bottom-five, 16-20 (and heading out in Q1): Zhou, Bottas, Magnussen, Ocon, Gasly

Hamilton takes a new set of soft tyres. Two mins to go.

F1 Bahrain Grand Prix qualifying: Carlos Sainz back on top

16:13 , Kieran Jackson

Sainz, Verstappen and Norris in the top-three - but it’s the bottom of the leaderboard we’re looking for here.

16-20 (and heading out in Q1): Zhou, Bottas, Magnussen, Ocon, Gasly

Lewis Hamilton a bit precarious for now, in P12. Daniel Ricciardo also just above the drop-zone in 15th.

Five minutes to go...

F1 Bahrain Grand Prix qualifying: Lando Norris fastest early on

16:11 , Kieran Jackson

Nine minutes to go - and Lando Norris goes top for McLaren with a 1:30:143!

Most of the field setting their flying laps now... who will be towards the dreaded drop-zone?

F1 Bahrain Grand Prix qualifying: Carlos Sainz quickest over his team-mate

16:08 , Kieran Jackson

Carlos Sainz goes top with a relatively slow 1:31:208 - Charles Leclerc 0.052 secs back on his Ferrari team-mate.

However, they’ll soon switch to soft tyres. No bother.

As for Pierre Gasly? His lap time is deleted for exceeding track limits - that’s putting your whole car over the white lines which define the racetrack.

12 minutes to go - and here comes the rest of the field...

F1 Bahrain Grand Prix qualifying: Ferraris first cars out on track

16:02 , Kieran Jackson

Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz out on medium tyres to start with, as are the Alpine duo of Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly.

The only four cars out on track from the beginning.

Q1 is underway!

16:00 , Kieran Jackson

Here we go then - the first qualifying session of the 2024 F1 season!

It’s chilly and windy in Bahrain and after a surprising few practice sessions, it could well be anybody’s game!

Time for Q1 - 18 minutes where, by the end, the slowest five drivers will be eliminated from the session.

Bahrain Grand Prix qualifying

15:55 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Just before we get going, it’s probably worth a reminder of the 20 combatants at season start. Here’s a look at the full F1 grid for 2024.

RED BULL

Max Verstappen

Sergio Perez

MERCEDES

Lewis Hamilton

George Russell

FERRARI

Charles Leclerc

Carlos Sainz

McLAREN

Lando Norris

Oscar Piastri

ASTON MARTIN

Fernando Alonso

Lance Stroll

ALPINE

Esteban Ocon

Pierre Gasly

WILLIAMS

Alex Albon

Logan Sargeant

RB

Yuki Tsunoda

Daniel Ricciardo

STAKE

Valtteri Bottas

Zhou Guanyu

HAAS

Kevin Magnussen

Nico Hulkenberg

Bahrain Grand Prix qualifying

15:50 , Harry Latham-Coyle

It looks pretty blustery in Bahrain, the teams huddling hidden in the garages as they make their final pre-qualifying checks. Who will cover the 5.412 km circuit the quickest?

Bahrain Grand Prix qualifying

15:45 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Not too long now until qualifying begins. A Ferrari pole this evening at the Sakhir Circuit would be the team’s 250th in Formula 1 - can Carlos Sainz or Charles Leclerc take top spot?

Drive to Survive review: Why season six misses the mark with Lewis Hamilton

15:40 , Kieran Jackson

It is Toto Wolff’s beaming smile of delight, in an episode of ironies, which is the biggest irony of them all. Most of the episodes in season six of Netflix’s hit Formula One docuseries Drive to Survive follow the same basic narrative: the team is in trouble, their driver could depart, the team finds success. Repeat. For Mercedes, it is all about their F1 boss Wolff’s relationship with the sport’s biggest star Lewis Hamilton, amid contract speculation last year.

The episode title signals the first contradiction: “Leap of Faith”. We now know that Hamilton, despite signing a two-year extension at the Silver Arrows last August, will join the prancing horse of Ferrari in 2025. While the “leap of faith” in Drive to Survive is a reference to Mercedes changing their torrid car philosophy mid-season, the seven-time world champion has now made the ultimate jump into the unknown. And if there was any doubt that the announcement didn’t catch Wolff totally off guard, the team at Netflix has completely dispelled that theory.

Drive to Survive review: Why season six misses the mark with Lewis Hamilton

Martin Brundle shares his hopes for new season

15:32 , Harry Latham-Coyle

“I just want to see close racing, good racing, and someone to take the fight to Red Bull. That’ll do me all year long.

“It’s cold, it’s windy, and I think some teams have improved their car since testing. Others are struggling a bit more. These are atypical conditions for Bahrain. I think Red Bull are struggling to find the optimum in these conditions. Mercedes seem really happy.”

Why is F1 Bahrain Grand Prix on a Saturday?

15:24 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Qualifying in Bahrain is drawing ever nearer - but why is race day at the first grand prix of the new season on a Saturday?

Why is the 2024 F1 season starting on a Saturday?

Martin Brundle demands ‘absolute conclusion’ after Christian Horner ‘leaks’

15:15 , Jamie Braidwood

Martin Brundle has called for the latest allegations surrounding Christian Horner to be brought to an “absolute conclusion” with the Red Bull team principal’s future once again in the spotlight on the eve of the Formula One season in Bahrain.

Horner was cleared to continue as Red Bull team boss following an internal investigation into allegations of “inappropriate behaviour” from a female colleague - but leaked WhatsApp messages and pictures on Thursday, some of a sexually suggestive nature, led Horner to reiterate his full denial of the allegations.

Horner, who is married to Spice Girl member Geri Halliwell, met with FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem and F1 chief executive Stefano Domenicali on Friday after returning to the paddock in Bahrain ahead of the first race of the 2024 season this weekend.

Martin Brundle demands ‘absolute conclusion’ after Christian Horner ‘leaks’

Geri Horner flies in to reunite with husband Christian at Bahrain GP after ‘sexual WhatsApps leaked’

15:07 , Roisin O’Connor

Geri Horner has landed in Bahrain on a private jet to meet her husband, Christian Horner, hours after what appeared to be a series of sexually suggestive messages between the Red Bull team boss and a female subordinate were leaked.

The F1 team principal, 50, was cleared of “inappropriate behaviour” on Wednesday after a three-week internal probe, following allegations from a female colleague which were strongly denied.

Sources close to the singer say was “relieved and elated” when the case against Horner was thrown out having been reduced to “floods of tears” while waiting on the outcome of the investigation, according to The Sun.

Geri flies in to reunite with husband at Bahrain GP after ‘sexual WhatsApps leaked’

Naomi Schiff speaks of ‘sadness’ after Christian Horner ‘messages to female colleague leaked’

15:00 , Kieran Jackson

Sky F1 pundit Naomi Schiff says she is “saddened” by the current saga surrounding Christian Horner, which has “cast a shadow” over the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix.

Horner, the Red Bull F1 boss, was cleared of “inappropriate behaviour” on Wednesday after a three-week internal probe conducted by an external lawyer, following allegations from a female colleague which were strongly refuted by Horner.

However, just 24 hours later, WhatsApp texts and pictures - some of a sexually suggestive nature - were leaked from an anonymous source to the sport’s prominent figures and members of the media, allegedly showing conversations between Horner and the complainant. The Independent has seen the leaked material, a Google Drive with 79 separate documents, but is unable to verify the authenticity of the content.

Naomi Schiff speaks of ‘sadness’ after Christian Horner ‘messages leaked’

F1 2024 season predictions: Constructors’ wooden spoon

14:53 , Kieran Jackson

When your new team principal, Ayao Komatsu, admits early on that your team will be “towards the back of the grid, if not last”, it indicates immediate pessimism about the upcoming season.

Tenth in two out of the last three seasons, Haas appear least likely to improve given the current discussions around their car. Guenther Steiner’s dismissal as team boss may well have dampened morale, too. Whether he is a bigger loss to the team or the sport remains to be seen.

Williams and RB look promising. Stake (Sauber) may run Haas closest in the battle to avoid the wooden spoon.

F1 2024 predictions: Biggest shock and who will replace Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes?

Helmut Marko responds after Carlos Sainz to Red Bull rumours

14:44 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Carlos Sainz is unlikely to join Red Bull, team advisor Helmut Marko has suggested, with the Spaniard likely to have decided on his next destination before Red Bull decide if they have a seat to offer him.

Sainz will leave Ferrari at the end of the 2024 season with Lewis Hamilton joining the Italian outfit to partner Charles Leclerc.

It means the 29-year-old will have to seek an alternative seat on the grid, with significant speculation over a number of suitors.

Helmut Marko responds after Carlos Sainz to Red Bull rumours

F1 2024 season schedule continued

14:37 , Harry Latham-Coyle

ROUND 13 - HUNGARY

Hungaroring, Budapest - 19-21 July

ROUND 14 - BELGIUM

Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps - 26-28 July

ROUND 15 - NETHERLANDS

Circuit Zandvoort - 23-25 August

ROUND 16 - ITALY

Monza Circuit - 30 August - 1 September

ROUND 17 - AZERBAIJAN

Baku City Circuit - 13-15 September

ROUND 18 - SINGAPORE

Marina Bay Street Circuit - 20-22 September

ROUND 19 - UNITED STATES (sprint race)

Circuit of the Americas, Austin - 18-20 October

ROUND 20 - MEXICO

Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez, Mexico City - 25-27 October

ROUND 21 - BRAZIL (sprint race)

Interlagos Circuit, Sao Paulo - 1-3 November

ROUND 22 - LAS VEGAS

Las Vegas Street Circuit - 21-23 November

ROUND 23 - QATAR (sprint race)

Lusail International Circuit, Lusail - 29 November - 1 December

ROUND 24 - ABU DHABI

Yas Marina Circuit - 6-8 December

When does the 2024 F1 season start?

F1 2024 season schedule

14:33 , Harry Latham-Coyle

2024 F1 CALENDAR IN FULL:

ROUND 1 —BAHRAIN

Bahrain International Circuit, Sakhir - 29 February - 2 March

ROUND 2 - SAUDI ARABIA

Jeddah Corniche Circuit - 7-9 March

ROUND 3 - AUSTRALIA

Albert Park, Melbourne - 22-24 March

ROUND 4 - JAPAN

Suzuka International Racing Course - 5-7 April

ROUND 5 - CHINA (sprint race)

Shanghai International Circuit - 19-21 April

ROUND 6 - MIAMI (sprint race)

Miami International Autodrome, Hard Rock Stadium - 3-5 May

ROUND 7 - EMILIA ROMAGNA

Imola Circuit - 17-19 May

ROUND 8 - MONACO

Circuit de Monaco - 24-26 May

ROUND 9 - CANADA

Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, Montreal - 7-9 June

ROUND 10 - SPAIN

Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya - 21-23 June

ROUND 11 - AUSTRIA (sprint race)

Red Bull Ring, Spielberg - 28-30 June

ROUND 12 - GREAT BRITAIN

Silverstone Circuit - 5-7 July

When does the 2024 F1 season start?

Guenther Steiner secures new job in F1 after Haas exit

14:26 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Former Haas team principal Guenther Steiner will return to work in F1 as a pundit for German broadcaster RTL.

Steiner lost his job at Haas in January after eight seasons leading the American team in Formula 1, with team owner Gene Haas opting for a change with trackside engineering director Ayao Komatsu promoted to team boss.

Yet Steiner, known for his colourful language and entertaining appearances on Netflix’s Drive to Survive, has now found a new job with RTL, who broadcast F1 in Germany.

Guenther Steiner secures new job in F1 after Haas exit

Christian Horner set to remain in paddock for qualifying

14:20 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Embattled Red Bull team principal Christian Horner will be back in the Formula One paddock for qualifying ahead of Saturday’s Bahrain Grand Prix.

Horner’s future is again in the spotlight after hundreds of WhatsApp messages appearing to be written by him to a female colleague were leaked.

On Wednesday, Horner was cleared to continue as Red Bull team principal following an internal probe into “inappropriate behaviour” by the F1 team’s parent company Red Bull GmbH. He has always denied the claims.

But just 24 hours later, messages and a number of images apparently exchanged between Horner and the complainant were sent from an anonymous email account to 149 members of the F1 paddock - including FIA president Mohammed ben Sulayem, F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali and the grid’s nine other team principals, as well as members of the media - on the eve of this weekend’s season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix.

Horner said in a statement: “I will not comment on anonymous speculation, but to reiterate I have always denied the allegations.

“I respected the integrity of the independent investigation and fully cooperated with it every step of the way.

“It was a thorough and fair investigation conducted by an independent specialist barrister and it has concluded dismissing the complaint made.

“I remain fully focused on the start of the season.”

Christian Horner responds after texts allegedly sent to female colleague leaked

Toto Wolff explains reason behind short Lewis Hamilton extension at Mercedes

14:14 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Toto Wolff has revealed that Mercedes only gave Lewis Hamilton a short-term contract to guard against potentially losing budding teenage star Andrea Kimi Antonelli.

Hamilton will leave the team at the end of the 2024 Formula 1 season to join Ferrari after more than a decade with the Brackley-based team.

The seven-time world champion signed a two-year contract extension last summer that seemed to tie him down through the end of the 2025 season, but has been able to use a get-out clause to join their rivals next year.

The relatively short contract offered and accepted by Hamilton surprised some at the time, and Wolff has now explained that Mercedes were reluctant to extend the Brit beyond next year.

Recalling how he missed out on Max Verstappen in 2014, Wolff does not want to risk Antonelli, who will race in Formula 2 this season, heading elsewhere.

Toto Wolff explains reason behind short Lewis Hamilton extension at Mercedes

Who will replace Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes? Carlos Sainz and six other options

14:07 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Who else might be in the frame to replace Lewis Hamilton? Kieran Jackson assesses the candidates.

Carlos Sainz and six other potential replacements for Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes

Fernando Alonso: I would be an attractive option to replace Lewis Hamilton

14:01 , Harry Latham-Coyle

This feels like it could be a significant year for Alonso, who has thrown his name into the hat as speculation continues over who Mercedes might seek to replace Lewis Hamilton.

Fernando Alonso: I would be an attractive option to replace Lewis Hamilton

On to qualifying...

13:53 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Another intriguing practice session done and dusted, and it’ll be soon be time for the first proper action of the 2024 season. That’s really encouraging speed for Fernando Alonso - will it translate to a successful qualfying session a little later?

TOP-12 IN THIRD PRACTICE

13:45 , Kieran Jackson

1. Carlos Sainz - 1:30:824

2. Fernando Alonso - +0.141

3. Max Verstappen - +0.238

4. Charles Leclerc - +0.270

5. Lando Norris - +0.294

6. George Russell - +0.366

7. Oscar Piastri - +0.386

8. Sergio Perez - +0.424

9. Nico Hulkenberg - +0.454

10. Lance Stroll - +0.572

11. Daniel Ricciardo - +0.625

12. Lewis Hamilton - +0.628

It’s tight!

Carlos Sainz quickest in third practice

13:33 , Kieran Jackson

Sainz gets top spot!

The Ferrari goes quickest late on with a 1:30:824, 0.141 seconds quicker than Fernando Alonso in second.

Max Verstappen is third, 0.238 secs off Sainz, with Charles Leclerc fourth in the other Ferrari.

5-10: Norris, Russell, Piastri, Perez, Hulkenberg, Stroll

Lewis Hamilton down in 12th!

Carlos Sainz goes top!

13:29 , Kieran Jackson

Here comes the Ferrari!

Sainz goes top with a 1:30:824, 0.141 secs quicker than Alonso.

Final few minutes now...

Fernando Alonso:

13:21 , Kieran Jackson

“Another step. I’m connected with the car, it’s good.”

Promising for fans of the Spaniard!

Fernando Alonso goes quicker than Max Verstappen!

13:20 , Kieran Jackson

Now the Aston Martin looks quick!

Alonso goes fastest with a 1:30:965, 0.097 secs faster than Max Verstappen.

Lando Norris is a tenth down on Alonso in third, with George Russell in fourth - Lewis Hamilton is now seventh, 0.487 secs behind Alonso.

10 minutes to go!

NEW: Christian Horner has meeting with FIA boss Mohammed Ben Sulayem

13:16 , Kieran Jackson

Follow latest updates here:

Christian Horner – latest: Red Bull boss in crunch meeting after ‘WhatsApps leaked’

Fernando Alonso top of the timesheet

13:00 , Kieran Jackson

Most of the cars now out on the circuit, going through some qualifying simulation runs on the soft tyre - but in much warmer conditions than qualifying tonight.

Fernando Alonso is top at the halfway stage with a 1:31:582, two-tenths quicker than George Russell in second.

3-10: Leclerc, Sainz, Stroll, Magnussen, Albon, Norris, Hamilton, Ricciardo

Lewis Hamilton the only car out on track

12:44 , Kieran Jackson

A lack of cars out on the circuit so far, with Lewis Hamilton’s W15 the only car out there - on the soft tyres.

The Mercedes man was quickest in second practice on Friday night - could he have an impact in qualifying tonight?

Why is F1 Bahrain Grand Prix on a Saturday?

12:40 , Harry Latham-Coyle

No cars out on the track in Bahrain just yet, though it looks like Zhou Guanyu and a couple of others may be emerging soon enough.

We are ahead of schedule in one way, though - it is, of course, Friday rather than Saturday for qualifying this weekend and next with race day brought forward for the first two stops of the season. Here’s why:

Why is the 2024 F1 season starting on a Saturday?

Christian Horner set to sit on pit wall for qualifying

12:35 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Christian Horner was one of the first individuals at the paddock in Bahrain this morning as he continues to suggest it is business as usual. Sky believe that the Red Bull boss will sit on the pit wall as usual for qualifying later.

Red Bull adviser ‘flabbergasted’ after Horner texts allegedly leaked

12:30 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Helmut Marko admits he is “flabbergasted” that texts allegedly from Christian Horner to the complainant involved in Red Bull’s investigation were leaked to F1 personnel and media.

Red Bull F1 boss Horner was cleared on Wednesday of “inappropriate behaviour” after a three-week internal probe, conducted by an external lawyer, following allegations from a female colleague which Horner strongly refuted.

But late on Thursday, WhatsApp texts and pictures – some of a sexually suggestive nature – were leaked from an anonymous source to over 100 F1 personnel and media, allegedly showing conversations between Horner and the complainant. The veracity of the content cannot be verified and it is not known whether the alleged exchanges formed part of the investigation or whether it is new evidence.

Now Red Bull senior adviser Marko, who was in conversation with Horner in the F1 paddock in Bahrain on Thursday ahead of the first race of the new season, has reacted to the leak.

Red Bull adviser ‘flabbergasted’ after Christian Horner messages allegedly leaked

Sky pundit Karun Chandhok encouraged by Mercedes’ impressive start yesterday

12:22 , Harry Latham-Coyle

“I think the rest of the paddock aren’t under any illusions that the RB20 is still the car to beat this season. But there was a sense of buoyancy around Mercedes. The Mercedes has improved in terms of straight line speed, and the Ferrari looked good on the long runs yesterday, as did McLaren. We’ve all been waiting to see what the pecking order is this season, and we’ll see today.”

10 minutes until third practice!

12:20 , Kieran Jackson

This will be an interesting session - who can put down the final marker ahead of qualifying later on?

Mercedes showed impressive pace in second practice last night, with Lewis Hamilton leading home a one-two finish for the Silver Arrows.

Max Verstappen, however, was unhappy with his RB20 car throughout the day and was only sixth-fastest in that most recent session.

What will this final hour show?

2023 constructors’ championship odds!

12:12 , Kieran Jackson

Red Bull - 1/6

Ferrari - 7/1

McLaren, Mercedes - 10/1

Aston Martin - 66/1

Alpine, Visa Cash App RB - 500/1

Sauber - 750/1

Williams, Haas - 1000/1

Odds provided by Betway

Max Verstappen unfazed by slow pace on Thursday

12:06 , Kieran Jackson

The reigning world champion was only sixth-fastest in second practice on Thursday.

“I think it was not too bad, it’s just that I think it’s very close.

“Maybe some people around us already turned up the engine a bit in terms of top speed, but we just focus on ourselves, and I think from today, there were a few little balance issues from front to rear, but nothing big.

“It’s just about trying to find that sweet spot, and especially around here with the rough tarmac, when you get it into that sweet spot, you just pick up time and that’s what we’ll try to focus on a little bit more for tomorrow.

“But it’s going to be very close, I think, in qualifying, so that I think’s going to be very nice. The long run, I was a bit happier about that, but there’s a few little things we can do better.”

Lewis Hamilton tops Bahrain practice as Max Verstappen struggles in shock start to F1 season

12:01 , Kieran Jackson

Lewis Hamilton raised hope of taking the fight to Red Bull’s Max Verstappen at this weekend’s Bahrain Grand Prix after finishing fastest in practice.

The seven-time world champion led a Mercedes one-two under the lights of the Sakhir Circuit, with Aston Martin’s Fernando Alonso third and the Ferrari of Carlos Sainz fourth.

World champion Verstappen finished sixth, nearly half-a-second back for Red Bull.

Verstappen had been regarded as the heavy favourite heading into Saturday’s curtain raiser in the Gulf kingdom.

Full piece below:

Hamilton tops Bahrain practice as Verstappen struggles in shock start to F1 season

2024 F1 drivers championship odds!

11:48 , Kieran Jackson

No surprises who the favourite is at this point!

• Max Verstappen - 1/7

• Charles Leclerc - 12/1

• Lando Norris, Lewis Hamilton - 16/1

• Carlos Sainz - 25/1

• Sergio Perez - 28/1

• George Russell - 33/1

• Fernando Alonso - 40/1

• Oscar Piastri - 66/1

• Daniel Ricciardo - 500/1

• Alex Albon, Lance Stroll - 750/1

• Esteban Ocon, Pierre Gasly, Yuki Tsunoda, Valtteri Bottas, Zhou Guanyu - 1000/1

• Kevin Magnussen, Nico Hulkenberg - 1500/1

• Logan Sargeant - 2000/1

Odds provided by Betway

George Russell after finishing practice in second on Thursday:

11:29 , Kieran Jackson

“After testing, Max looked a long way out in front. Now that gap has reduced but he’s still out in front and he’s got a healthy margin compared to the others rather than a ridiculous margin compared to the others.

“The qualifying pace looked really strong, we still need to try and understand why it was so good.

“It was very close with Fernando, with Lando and the Ferraris. Lewis and I were very similar as well. So we’ve got a real fight on our hands in race pace.”

What is the race schedule and start times for practice and qualifying in Bahrain?

11:18 , Kieran Jackson

(All times GMT)

Friday 1 March

• Free practice 3: 12:30pm

• Qualifying: 4pm

Saturday 2 March

• Race: 3pm

Christian Horner – latest: Red Bull boss back on F1 grid after WhatsApp messages containing wife Geri leaked

10:57 , Kieran Jackson

Christian Horner has responded with a firm statement after WhatsApp messages – some of a sexually suggestive nature – allegedly from the Red Bull F1 boss were leaked on Thursday.

The team principal, married to Spice Girl member Geri Horner, was cleared of “inappropriate behaviour” on Wednesday after a three-week internal probe conducted by an external lawyer, following allegations from a female colleague which were strongly refuted by Horner.

However, just 24 hours later, WhatsApp texts and pictures were leaked from an anonymous source – to FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem, F1 chief executive Stefano Domenicali, the sport’s nine other team principals and members of the media – allegedly showing conversations between Horner and the complainant. The Independent has seen the leaked material, a Google Drive with 79 separate documents, but is unable to verify the authenticity of the content at this stage.

It is also unclear currently whether the alleged exchanges formed part of the investigation or whether it is new evidence. The embattled Red Bull boss is present in the F1 paddock in Bahrain on Friday, ahead of the first race of the 2024 season this weekend.

Follow live updates here:

Christian Horner – latest: Red Bull boss returns to F1 grid after WhatsApps leaked

Bahrain Grand Prix winner odds!

10:32 , Kieran Jackson

Fancy a flutter? Who will win the race on Saturday?

• Max Verstappen - 1/3

• Charles Leclerc - 9/1

• Sergio Perez - 12/1

• Lewis Hamilton, Carlos Sainz - 18/1

• George Russell, Lando Norris - 20/1

• Fernando Alonso - 28/1

• Oscar Piastri - 33/1

• Lance Stroll, Yuki Tsunoda, Daniel Ricciardo - 250/1

• Esteban Ocon - 300/1

• Alex Albon, Pierre Gasly - 400/1

• Guanyu Zhou, Kevin Magnussen, Nico Hulkenberg, Valtteri Bottas - 500/1

• Logan Sargeant - 750/1

Odds provided by Betway

Lewis Hamilton surprised at P1 finish in Bahrain GP qualifying:

10:16 , Kieran Jackson

“P1, we were surprised,” Hamilton said. “It was very, very windy this morning so it was a really difficult session I think for everyone. The track was so different I think compared to practice [testing] last week.”

“Otherwise, it was feeling ok, but we didn’t really know where we stood on the C2 (medium) tyre. And then in this session, we made some improvements over the session.

“Again, I don’t understand… it’s a shock to see us where we are but we’ll take it for now, but we can’t get ahead of ourselves.

“We need to keep our heads down, keep working on the set-up and try to extract more. I think our long-run pace is nowhere near the Red Bulls’, for example, and I think we [other front-runners] are all a lot closer, so we’ve got some work to do there.”

What time does the Barhain Grand Prix start tomorrow and how can I watch?

09:59 , Kieran Jackson

Formula 1 is back this weekend with the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix after a drama-filled off-season which saw Lewis Hamilton announce his departure from Mercedes and Red Bull team principal Christian Horner investigated and cleared over alleged ’inappropriate behaviour’ towards a female colleague.

After being rocked by the Horner story, F1 now switches attention back to the track as Max Verstappen looks to defend his world championship title.

Last week’s pre-season testing proved that Red Bull will once again be the team to beat with Verstappen setting the fastest lap time on day one. Their closest rivals seem to be Ferrari, who Hamilton is joining for 2025, though Mercedes and McLaren cannot be discounted either.

As for the teams competing in the middle of the field, Daniel Ricciardo hopes newly-rebranded RB will compete at the front of the pack while Fernando Alonso and Aston Martin look to further develop their car. That said, all this is merely speculation until the competition heats up.

What time does the Barhain Grand Prix start tomorrow and how can I watch?

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff calls for ‘more transparency’ in Christian Horner case

09:48 , Jack Rathborn

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff has challenged Formula One and its governing body to demand greater transparency from Red Bull’s investigation into Christian Horner.

Horner has been cleared to continue as Red Bull team principal following an internal probe into “inappropriate behaviour” towards a female colleague.

Horner was on the Red Bull pit wall on Thursday for both practice sessions of the new season.

“I am pleased that the process is over and I cannot comment about it,” he told Sky Sports. “I am focused on the season ahead. Within the team it (the unity) has never been stronger.”

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff calls for ‘more transparency’ in Christian Horner case

Lewis Hamilton shocked to finish fastest on ‘crazy Thursday’ in Bahrain

09:38 , Jack Rathborn

Lewis Hamilton admitted he was shocked to finish fastest in practice for Saturday’s Formula One curtain raiser in Bahrain.

The seven-time world champion has not won a race for more than two years, but he led a surprise Mercedes one-two under the lights of the Sakhir Circuit on Thursday night.

Hamilton finished two tenths clear of team-mate George Russell, with Aston Martin’s Fernando Alonso third.

On yet another explosive off-track day for Red Bull, Max Verstappen bemoaned the handling of his machine. He finished sixth.

The Silver Arrows went under the radar at last week’s test in the Gulf kingdom, but they were quietly optimistic heading into Thursday’s running – and the second session belonged to the team that once dominated the sport.

“This has been a crazy Thursday,” said Hamilton, 39. “I don’t understand it, and it is a shock to see us where we are, but we will take it for now.

Lewis Hamilton shocked to finish fastest on ‘crazy Thursday’ in Bahrain

Guenther Steiner secures new job in F1 after Haas exit

09:28 , Jack Rathborn

Former Haas team principal Guenther Steiner will return to work in F1 as a pundit for German broadcaster RTL.

Steiner lost his job at Haas in January after eight seasons leading the American team in Formula 1, with team owner Gene Haas opting for a change with trackside engineering director Ayao Komatsu promoted to team boss.

Yet Steiner, known for his colourful language and entertaining appearances on Netflix’s Drive to Survive, has now found a new job with RTL, who broadcast F1 in Germany.

Steiner will be in the paddock for the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix this weekend and will attend seven races with RTL.

Guenther Steiner secures new job in F1 after Haas exit

What is the race schedule and start times for practice in Bahrain?

09:14 , Kieran Jackson

(All times GMT)

Friday 1 March

• Free practice 3: 12:30pm

• Qualifying: 4pm

Saturday 2 March

• Race: 3pm

Lewis Hamilton tops Bahrain practice as Max Verstappen struggles in shock start to F1 season

09:08 , Jack Rathborn

Lewis Hamilton raised hope of taking the fight to Red Bull’s Max Verstappen at this weekend’s Bahrain Grand Prix after finishing fastest in practice.

The seven-time world champion led a Mercedes one-two under the lights of the Sakhir Circuit, with Aston Martin’s Fernando Alonso third and the Ferrari of Carlos Sainz fourth.

World champion Verstappen finished sixth, nearly half-a-second back for Red Bull.

Verstappen had been regarded as the heavy favourite heading into Saturday’s curtain raiser in the Gulf kingdom.

Hamilton tops Bahrain practice as Verstappen struggles in shock start to F1 season

Christian Horner responds after texts allegedly sent to female colleague leaked

08:58 , Jack Rathborn

Christian Horner has responded with a firm statement after WhatsApp messages allegedly from the Red Bull F1 boss were leaked on Thursday.

The team principal was cleared of “inappropriate behaviour” on Wednesday after a three-week internal probe conducted by an external lawyer, following allegations from a female colleague which were strongly refuted by Horner.

However, just 24 hours later, WhatsApp texts and pictures were leaked from an anonymous source – to FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem, F1 chief executive Stefano Domenicali, the sport’s nine other team principals and members of the media – allegedly showing conversations between Horner and the complainant. The Independent has seen the leaked material but is unable to verify the authenticity of the content at this stage.

Christian Horner responds after texts allegedly sent to female colleague leaked

Christian Horner allegations timeline: How Red Bull team principal became embroiled in scandal

08:48 , Jack Rathborn

Christian Horner’s Formula One future is back in the spotlight after WhatsApp messages appearing to be sent by him have been leaked.

Horner was cleared to remain in his role as Red Bull F1 team principal after an investigation into allegations of “inappropriate behaviour” made by a female colleague were dismissed.

A statement from Red Bull confirmed Horner has been cleared of all charges ahead of the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix this weekend. Horner emphatically denied the claims.

But just 24 hours later, hundreds of messages and a number of images apparently between Horner and the complainant were sent from an anonymous email account to members of the F1 paddock – including FIA president Mohamed ben Sulayem, F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali and the grid’s nine other team principals, as well as the media – on the eve of this weekend’s season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix.

Christian Horner allegations timeline: How Red Bull chief became embroiled in scandal

F1 2024 season predictions: World champion, biggest shock, and who will replace Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes?

08:47 , Jack Rathborn

Another Formula One off season has come and gone – with its fair share of dramatic stories – but now we are set to go racing once again.

This Saturday’s season opener in Bahrain is the first of a record-breaking 24 races in 2024, which sees the season stretch from Bahrain GP practice on 29 February to the finale in Abu Dhabi on 8 December.

Max Verstappen is the unquestionable favourite to claim his fourth straight world championship this year, with Red Bull winning 21 out of 22 races last year and the likes of Ferrari, Mercedes and McLaren all playing catch up.

But will there be a surprise in store? Can anyone make the jump up into the midfield contenders? And how will a fascinating driver market develop throughout the year?

F1 2024 predictions: Biggest shock and who will replace Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes?