Jean-Eric Vergne led the times at Yas Marina on Tuesday for Red Bull, as this week's three-day young driver test got underway at the Abu Dhabi circuit. Vergne, who finished second in this year's Formula Renault 3.5 series, clocked a best time of 1m 40.011s in the RB7 to finish over ninth tenths of a second ahead of Jules Bianchi in the Ferrari.
Reigning Formula Renault 3.5 champion Robert Wickens was third for Renault, ahead of Swiss driver Fabio Leimer, who made his Formula One debut for Sauber. Fifth fastest was McLaren tester Gary Paffett, whilst 20 year-old British GP2 driver Max Chilton was sixth for Force India.
McLaren are expected to run their test driver Gary Paffett along with McLaren young driver Oliver Turvey at next week's Abu Dhabi young driver test at the Yas Marina Circuit.
The main focus will be on giving them a little bit more exposure to Formula One and for people to be aware of them, said team principal Martin Whitmarsh
McLaren have confirmed test and reserve driver Gary Paffett will stay with the British team for the 2012 season after extending his contract. Paffett joined McLaren back in 2005 and has played a key role in the development of the team's cars.
I'm extremely pleased to have renewed my relationship with Vodafone McLaren Mercedes, said the 30 year-old Briton. As everybody knows, success in Formula One is developed through the strength and duration of relationships. I've been a part of this team for more than five years, and it's a place where I really feel happy and comfortable, and where I can confidently speak my mind.
