The world championship leader completed the 5.412 km of this brand new route in 1 min 31 sec 98/1000th, ahead of 71/1000th George Russell (Mercedes) and his runner-up in the championship, the Dutchman Max Verstappen (Red Bull) of 179/1000th.
During the session, the reigning world champion was notably forced to stay in the garage for part of the tests due to a technical problem with his car.
The Mexican Sergio Pérez (Red Bull) and the Frenchman Pierre Gasly (AlphaTauri) complete the Top 5. The seven-time world champion in the category, the Briton Lexis Hamilton, snatched the 8th time.
The tests were interrupted ten minutes after the accident of Valtteri Bottas who lost control of his Alfa Romeo before hitting a wall.
In Miami, the drivers have to deal with a new circuit – fast – since the queen discipline of motor sport has never before landed in Florida.
The second free practice session is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. local time (11:30 p.m. French).
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