Red Bull driver Max Verstappen of the Netherlands steers his car during the first free practice at the Yas Marina racetrack in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, Friday, Dec. 11
Max Verstappen posted the fastest time Friday in the first practice for the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
The Red Bull driver was .34 seconds ahead of Mercedes rival Valtteri Bottas and 1.14 seconds quicker than Renault driver Esteban Ocon.
Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton returned for Mercedes after recovering from the coronavirus and had the fifth fastest time. He struggled early in the session with a brake sensor issue that needed fixing in the team garage.
A second practice will be held later Friday at the Yas Marina circuit.
