Free Practice 2 Recap: Hamilton Tops Timesheets Again

Lewis Hamilton once again was quickest in practice as he became the first and only driver so far to break into the 1:23s.

Hamilton recorded a blistering 1:23:931 to dominate the first day of the Formula One season.

Max Verstappen split the Mercedes pair, a tenth behind Hamilton and a similar margin ahead of Valtteri Bottas.

However, Verstappen’s team mate Daniel Ricciardo could not match the Dutchman’s time, having one lap scuppered by a red flag and then spending time in the garage due to a suspension change.

Ricciardo could only finish seventh, eight tenths away for Hamilton’s best time.

Ferrari were again fourth and fifth, but the surprise package was Romain Grosjean.

The Frenchman built on his success in FP1, and broke into the top six with an impressive time only seven tenths away from Hamilton’s best.

Fernando Alonso was eight-quickest and Kevin Magnussen backed up Grosjean’s pace in ninth.

It was another poor session however for Sauber, with Ericsson and Leclerc at the bottom of the pile, a way off the pace they need to be.