Hamilton fastest on day one of final test

The Mercedes driver was ahead of Massa at second and Kyvat at third

BARCELONA: World champion Lewis Hamilton was fastest on a rain-interrupted first morning of the final four-day test in Barcelona.

Hamilton bettered his own time that sealed pole at the Spanish Grand Prix last year in one minute 24:881 seconds within the first hour, but was held up by an unexpected rain shower that limited the Englishman to 48 laps.

Felipe Massa was second quickest for Williams, whilst Daniil Kyvat was third fastest despite breaking down in the Red Bull on his way out the pitlane early on.

However, McLaren-Honda's problems persist as Jenson Button was once again at the back of the grid on time and mileage completed after completing just seven laps.

Force India were not in action as the Silverstone-based team hope to run their new JVM08 car for the first time on Friday afternoon.

Alonso leaves hospital following crash

Two-time Formula One world champion Fernando Alonso has left hospital following a crash during testing in Barcelona last weekend, announced his McLaren team.

"We are pleased to confirm that Alonso has now the left hospital. He has returned to his family's home in Spain for further rest and recuperation," said McLaren in a statement.

The Woking-based outfit also confirmed that Alonso will not drive in the remaining of this week's final four-day pre-season test. "As a result, he will sit out this week's final winter test, at which he was due to share driving duties with Jenson Button.

"Kevin Magnussen, McLaren-Honda's test and reserve driver, will replace him."

Alonso crashed into a wall after completing just 20 laps on Sunday and was airlifted to hospital under sedation.

 
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