F1 Bahrain: Rosberg fastest in training, Schumacher 3rd

Friday's practice session for the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix has perhaps proved one thing already. Michael Schumacher will be a force in F1 this season. Nico Rosberg was fastest in Friday's practice sessions, but his Mercedes team-mate Schumacher showed he hasn't lost much at all.

The first practice for the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix took place on Friday - with new teams Lotus, Virgin Racing and Hispania experiencing a steep learning curve as they attempt to challenge the traditional powers.

In the first practice session, Nico Rosberg, steered his Mercedes to the fastest time of one minute, 55.409 seconds

McLaren's Lewis Hamilton was second fastest, less than a half second adrift off Rosberg.

All eyes were on former 7-time world champion Michael Schumacher, who made a high-profile return to F1 track, and the German had a good start - finishing third for Mercedes. Schumacher, reunited with Ross Brawn felt comfortable in his return.

Michael Schumacher, Mercedes, said, "But so far I have to say the guys are very good guys, it is good harmony, particularly knowing the boss quite well and he knows me too so it makes things a lot easier, a lot smoother."

Defending champion Jenson Button was fourth for McLaren, he feels the field is wide open this year with a number of drivers expected to challenge for the 2010 title.

Jenson Button, Mclaren, said, "Especially here at Bahrain at the first race, just before I put on my helmet and I look at the car and see the number one, it's going to be an emotional moment but as soon as you step into your car and close your visor last season is out the window and you're already focused on this year."

Meanwhile, the top Red Bull driver in practice was Sebastian Vettel, who was just over one second off Rosberg's pace, fifth fastest.