Chennai: Lewis Hamilton control over FP1 as the first ever Formula 1 practice took place. Hamilton took his first pole of this season’s Free practice at Albert Park, Melbourne.

Vettel’s Ferrari teammate, Charles Leclerc, finished Free Practice 1 third fastest in an encouraging sign for the Maranello-based team.

Home favourite Daniel Ricciardo eased through the opening session, finishing 17th fastest with just 16 laps to his name.Only Nico Hulkenberg, Ricciardo’s Renault teammate completed less laps, the German finishing just 11 after suffering an electrical issue during the first half of the 90-minute session.

Toro Rosso’s Alexander Albon was the first Formula 1 driver to crash for the weekend, the rookie spinning at the exit of Turn 2 and losing his front wing as he spun around.

The 22-year-old was able to carry on and return to Pit Lane, while a red flag was briefly shown to clear the debris. Shortly after, Mercedes’ Valtteri Bottas had a close shave with the wall at the entry of Turn 15 but escaped with no damage.

Bottas finished fifth fastest, behind Red Bull’s Max Verstappen.Free Practice 2 also takes place today, with teams getting another 90 minutes to finetune proceedings ahead of Saturday’s Free Practice 3 and much-anticipated qualifying session.