Ferrari 'media blackout' returns in Bahrain

Ferrari's media blackout has returned in Bahrain, with Ferrari drivers Kimi Raikkonen and Sebastian Vettel not taking questions from the media this weekend. 

Ferrari has been keeping a low profile to the media since winter testing, and it has drawn criticism from many, especially as it seems that the team are set to challenge Mercedes for both 2017 titles.

Team principal Maurizio Arrivabene has defended the approach, stating they are finding a balance between the traditional methods of media communication and digital forms such as social media sites.

Ferrari was then more open in China, but on Thursday in Bahrain, it was clear the 'media blackout' was back as Sebastian Vettel and Kimi Raikkonen did no appearances for the general press.

Germany's Sport1 quoted a team spokesman as saying joint championship leader Vettel was busy with sponsor events, and it would have been "unfair" to give the entire load to teammate Raikkonen.