Max fifth in Shanghai opening practice

Published on 13 April 2018 by Stefan Meens

Max Verstappen started his Chinese Grand Prix weekend with fifth in the opening practice session. The Dutchman completed 22 laps of the Shanghai International Circuit. Reigning world champion Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes) was quickest, ahead Ferrari’s Kimi Raikkonen and Hamilton's team mate Valtteri Bottas. Aston Martin Red Bull Racing’s Daniel Ricciardo was fourth.

As the first session gets underway, most drivers head out for their installation laps. Exceptions are Bottas and Max, the latter only leaving his pit box twenty minutes into practice.

When he does venture out, he does so on the medium Pirelli compound. After a five-lap stint, he makes a quick stop at the team for continuing on the the same set of tyres to set the fourth fastest time.

After a busy first half to FP1, the opening session typically goes into a lull and in Shanghai it is no different. With half an hour to go, several drivers do decide to hit the track again. Max is one of them, using a set of brand new ultra-softs.

Before the youngster is able set a lap on his new Pirellis, he loses control of the RB14. After as short trip through the gravel traps, and after picking up a flat spot, he is on his way and even sets a lap time (1:34.699), before returning to the pits. The time set, turns out to be Max quickest effort of the session.

The two Ferraris, Mercedes and team mate Daniel Ricciardo all clock a faster lap, meaning Max finishes fifth in FP1.

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Results first free practice China: