Istanbul, 28 May

The seventh round of the Formula 1 World Championship, the Turkish Grand Prix, got underway this morning with the first free practice session, in preparation for this Sunday’s race at the Istanbul Speed Park. McLaren’s Lewis Hamilton topped the time sheet with a best time of 1.28.653, ahead of team-mate Jenson Button (1.29.615) and the Mercedes of Michael Schumacher (1.29.750.) It was very hot with track temperatures reaching 41°C, which had an effect on tyre degradation. Best placed of the two Ferraris was that of Fernando Alonso, ninth in 1.30.294, completing 20 laps, while in the other F10, Felipe Massa was thirteenth, doing 22 laps, the best in a time of 1.30.867. Both Ferrari men concentrated on set-up work and an evaluation of different methods for managing the blown rear wing. They ended the session doing practice starts on the grid, as it is not allowed at this track to do so at the pit lane exit.

The Istanbul action resumes in just over two hours at 14.00 with the second free practice session.