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Lewis Hamilton, Mercedes-Benz F1 W08  runs wide into the gravel

Why Mercedes’ “diva” car is throwing an ill-timed tantrum

Ferrari starred, Red Bull looked strong and Mercedes floundered in practice at Sepang on Friday. That was a surprise result given Mercedes was expected to lead the way. So what’s occurring at such a crucial time in the title fight?

"A puzzling Friday" was the verdict coming from the Mercedes camp after the opening day of practice for Formula 1's final Malaysian Grand Prix.

On a circuit where it dominated on pure pace last season, and would have won easily but for Lewis Hamilton's spectacular engine failure in the race, F1's multiple reigning champion team was nowhere on the 2017 Friday practice timesheets.

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