Lewis Hamilton wins in Bahrain after Charles Leclerc loses power and lead

Often harsh, often unforgiving: that racing can be a cruel mistress was brought home to Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc with a bludgeon blow at the Bahrain Grand Prix. Lewis Hamilton may have won the race for Mercedes but it was Leclerc who captivated in this fascinating drama. Only 21 years old, with a first win in his grasp, he was denied at the last.

The Monégasque’s composure and skill on track and his extraordinary maturity in dealing with this harshest of slings and arrows confirmed this young man is a world champion in waiting.