Vettel improves Barcelona test benchmark

Sebastian Vettel (Ferrari) achieved the new benchmark at the Barcelona tests (Spain). The SF70H driver completed a lap in 1’19”024 with his car on ultra-soft tires and improved by three tenths the previous record achieved the day before by Valtteri Bottas on Mercedes W08. The four-time world champion could undoubtedly have gone below the 1'19 mark if he had not lifted his foot several times just before the finish line.

Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes) was the closest, 3 tenths behind the Ferrari. Esteban Ocon (Force India) completed the top three by finishing one second behind the new benchmark. The French preceded the Toro Rosso by Daniil Kvyat and the Red Bull de Daniel Ricciardo.

Kevin Magnussen (Haas) signed the 6th fastest time ahead of the McLaren from Stoffel Vandoorne who was once again not spared from the problems. The MCL32 was the cause of the two interruptions this morning following a mechanical problem. The Belgian was only able to cover 33 laps.

Only Jolyon Palmer (Renault) was less diligent with 2 fewer loops. The Briton set the 8th time ahead of Marcus Ericsson (Sauber) who was conversely the most present on the track with Lance stroll (Williams) which completes the timing sheet.

Barcelona Morning Results – Day 7

1. Sebastian Vettel (Ferrari) – 1’19”024 (ultra soft) – 60 laps
2. Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes) – 1’19”352 (ultra soft) – 52 laps
3. Esteban Ocon (Force India) – 1’20”161 (ultra soft) – 51 laps
4. Daniil Kvyat (Toro Rosso) – 1’20”416 (super soft) – 34 laps
5. Daniel Ricciardo (Red Bull) – 1’20”824 (soft) – 41 laps
6. Kevin Magnussen (Haas) – 1’20”863 (super soft) – 45 laps
7. Stoffel Vandoorne (McLaren) – 1’21”348 (ultra soft) – 33 laps
8. Jolyon Palmer (Renault) – 1’22”418 (soft) – 31 laps
9. Marcus Ericsson (Sauber) – 1’23”330 (soft) – 88 laps
10. Lance Stroll (Williams) – 1’24”863 (soft) – 85 laps