Vergne completes young driver test domination

Formula Renault 3.5 series runner-up Jean-Eric Vergne completed his domination of this year's F1 young driver test by topping the third and final day at Abu Dhbai.

The Frenchman, who finished second to Robert Wickens in this year's 3.5 campaign, ended the day almost two seconds faster than Mercedes' Sam Bird with a best lap of 1m38.917. GP2 race-winner Bird enjoyed his most competitive day in terms of times to finish ahead of Ferrari's Jules Binachi and McLaren runner Oliver Turvey.

Meanwhile reigning Formula Two champion Mirko Bortolotti was seventh fastest as he made his debut for the Williams team, the Italian's prize for taking the F2 crown this season. Top FR 3.5 rookie Alexander Rossi ran for Lotus, ending the day ninth, whilst series champion Wickens shared the Marussia Virgin car with Charles Pic. The Frenchman, who is expected to land that MVR drive next season, was a shade under half a second slower than Wickens at the close of play.

James Weeks