The car proved to be fast in pre-season testing, and it carried its form into the first race of the season, the . Vettel qualified in 2nd, splitting the two Mercedes cars and Räikkönen qualified in 4th. Vettel took the lead from Lewis Hamilton on lap 17 when he pitted for new tyres. Hamilton rejoined behind Max Verstappen and could not pass him. Vettel took advantage of this and came out in the lead after his stop. Vettel went on to win the inaugural race of the season ahead of the two Mercedes drivers, giving Ferrari its first win since the 2015 Singapore Grand Prix. Räikkönen finished in 4th after fending off a late charge from Verstappen. This result also marked the first race weekend after which a Mercedes-powered team was not leading the Constructors' Championship since the 2013 Brazilian Grand Prix.