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Leclerc completes two GP distances for Ferrari in Pirelli Ricard test

Ferrari's 2019 Formula 1 signing Charles Leclerc completed the equivalent of more than two race distances at Paul Ricard on Thursday, as part of Pirelli's 2019 tyre evaluation programme.

Current Sauber driver Leclerc, who will join Sebastian Vettel at Ferrari next season, completed 129 laps behind the wheel of the SF71H at the French Grand Prix venue. Vettel will take over driving duties on Friday.

It marked the first time Leclerc has driven for Ferrari since being announced as a race driver for the Maranello squad next year.

The test is being viewed as crucial for Pirelli, as the F1 tyre supplier approaches the conclusion of its 2019 development programme.

Leclerc shared the track with the Mercedes of Valtteri Bottas, who completed 102 laps.

Both teams had already conducted 2019 wet test days for Pirelli, but this was the first time either had run the new slicks.

The tyres were unbranded, so teams did not know which construction or compound they were running.

Two further tests, with Renault after the Japanese GP and Sauber after the Mexican GP, will focus on compounds.

Definitive 2019 tyres will then be run by all teams immediately after the Abu Dhabi season finale.

Zdroj: autosport.com