Since then, Max Verstappen has finally confirmed his immediate future lies with Red Bull, while team principal Fred Vasseur has signed a contract extension with Ferrari.

McLaren look certain to win both Formula 1 championships this year with the teams' title all-but sewn up and Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri duelling for individual glory

Sauber stand-in Paul Aron, driving in place of Nico Hulkenberg for FP1, came to a halt at Turn 13 after facing a "systems critical alarm" on his steering wheel. The race director chose to throw a virtual safety car to ensure the Estonian's car could be collected from the run-off.