"Bahrain Grand Prix: Verstappen Unfazed as Mercedes Surprises in Practice"

Max Verstappen remains optimistic despite a low-key showing in practice sessions at the Bahrain International Circuit, predicting a "very close" qualifying session. He downplayed the timesheets, attributing the gap to some teams potentially turning up their engines. Verstappen's teammate, Sergio Perez, also expressed confidence in their exploration of the car's balance. Both drivers anticipate a tight battle in qualifying against their competitive rivals, particularly Mercedes.