McLaren Dominate Free Practice 1

I know I always say that Free Practice sessions mean nothing, indicate nothing, and provide no real data on how things will progress in the race but I'm hopeful that, given the dominance of the Red Bulls over the last four race weekends, we might see a bit more competition at this weeks Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

A totally relaxed Lewis Hamilton topped the timing sheets with a 1.43.258 followed by Jenson Button, the only other driver to break the 1m44s barrier.

A relaxed Lewis in the pits before FP1
Courtesy of Vodafone McLaren Mercedes 

Behind the two McLarens came the Championship leader Sebastian Vettel followed by Fernando Alonso and Mark Webber.

The only other matter of note was the fact that Valtteri Bottas in 9th place was only two-tenths of a second behind Pastor Maldonado in 7th.

At the back of the pack, Giedo van der Garde didn't set any competitive time in the Caterham due to engine problems.