Private Testing – Day 3: Vergne 4 tenths off the best time this morning

Jean-Eric Vergne set the fastest time of the three days this morning, nearly two seconds off his best time. He thus gets within 0.4 seconds of the pole position time set by Vettel last Saturday during the Grand Prix.

The Frenchman surpasses his compatriot in the Ferrari: Jules Bianchi. The 2011 GP2 championship third-place finisher has not yet done any laps in qualifying mode. Nevertheless, he is only four-tenths of a second off his best time.

Turvey in the McLaren is third. He is ahead of Chilton and Rossi in the Force India and Team Lotus. Alexander Rossi had previously driven a Formula 1 for BMW in 2009. He is ahead of the Sauber of Gutierrez, which is in itself a good performance despite the differences in setup. Coletti and Bortolotti are 7th and 8th with the Toro Rosso and Williams.

Note that the two French drivers Berthon and Pic are behind with an HRT and a Virgin. Berthon is ahead of Charouz with an equivalent weapon. Finally, Sam Bird brings up the rear. The Mercedes GP test driver focused on long stints and measuring the variation of the 2012 tires.

Note that LRGP was not running this morning.

Abu Dhabi Private Testing Results – Day 3 Morning: