Alonso returns to familiar position, tops Chinese GP Practice 1

Zee Media Bureau

Shanghai: Former World Champion, Fernando Alonso and his Italian stable Ferrari returns to the top of time-sheet for the first time this season after an impressive Friday Free practice 1 at Shanghai International Circuit.

The Spaniard, who won back-to-back Formula One Driver`s Championship in 2005 and 2006 with Renault, clocked 1`39.783 to finish fastest in first practice for the Chinese Grand Prix. Mercedes` championship leader, Nico Rosberg follows him with 1`40.181 timing.

However, it was a mixed session for the Italian livery Alonso`s new team-mate Kimi Raikkonen could not practice. The Finn was the only driver not to record a timed lap because of a mechanical issue.

Red Bull Racing`s Daniel Ricciardo was at third with a timing of 1`40.772 as his record-breaking partner Sebastian Vettel could only manage ninth fastest timing on a Friday cloudy morning.

McLaren`s Jenson Button was fourth, ahead of Force India driver Nico Hulkenberg. Button`s 21-year-old partner, Kevin Magnussen beat Scuderia Toro Rosso`s Jean-Eric Vergne and Mercedes` Lewis Hamilton – who is aiming for a third successive win this Sunday, for the 6th.

Former Ferrari driver, Felipe Massa now driving for Williams completed the top ten with 1`41.699.