Max enjoys productive morning at first pre-season test

Published on 23 February 2022 by Stefan Meens

Max Verstappen completed 80 laps of the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya on the opening morning of the first pre-season test. Although the Dutchman was only sixth fastest, he was the most productive driver, together with Charles Leclerc, who clocked the same number of laps. The Ferrari driver was also quickest.

As the pitlane light jumps to green, the next chapter in Formula 1 history starts with a new generation of cars taking to the track. Max is one of the first to venture out. After a quick visit to the pits to allow the mechanics to practice a pit-stop, the world champion continues to gain valuable track time.

After half an hour, Max has completed ten laps and is quickest thus far, although at this stage in testing, lap times are not as relevant compared to track time. The new RB18 appears to be reliable as Max continues to pound the Barcelona Grand Prix circuit, ultimately resulting in 80 laps during a session that was free of incidents.

For the Wednesday afternoon session, Max is also scheduled to drive the RB18, with Sergio Perez taking over on Thursday.

Formula 1 pre-season testing - Wednesday morning results:

01 Leclerc      Ferrari        1.20.165   80
02 Norris       McLaren        1.20.474   50
03 Russell      Mercedes       1.20.784   77
04 Vettel       Aston Martin   1.21.276   52
05 Tsunoda      AlphaTauri     1.21.638   44
06 Verstappen   Red Bull       1.22.246   80
07 Alonso       Alpine         1.23.317   54
08 Latifi       Williams       1.23.379   66
09 Mazepin      Haas           1.24.505   20
10 Kubica       Alfa Romeo     1.25.909    9