McLaren spent a portion of free practice at the Bahrain Grand Prix continuing tests with their 2021 floor and diffuser. Norris stated he was lacking confidence with the car, alluding to the MCL35's wind sensitivity issues, saying "I didn't feel the most confident throughout today [...] Just because it's quite tricky with the wind, even though it's not very windy." During the second part of qualifying (Q2), Sainz's rear axle locked as his rear brakes failed, ending his qualifying session early and limiting his choice of tyre compounds for the race. Norris would go on to qualify ninth, leaving Sainz in fifteenth. Both McLarens exhibited strong race pace, and Norris would ultimately finish fourth in the race with Sainz fifth, meaning McLaren re-took third in the Constructors' Championship by 17 points after both Racing Point cars retired. Norris overtook Sainz for seventh in the Drivers' Championship.