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Hard to learn anything in cold temperatures - Ricciardo

Daniel Ricciardo was happy to top the timesheet on the first day of pre-season testing in Barcelona, but admits the knowledge gained over the day was limited.

The Red Bull driver set the pace in the latter part of the morning, setting a benchmark time of 1:20.179 on Pirelli's medium compound which would remain unbeaten as conditions went from dry to slightly damp at the end of the day.

The Aussie rued the cold temperatures but welcomed the good performance.

Red Bull claims opening honours on first day of testing

"That was… cold! But apart from that it was good," said Ricciardo.

"In the morning when it was dry everything was fine but in the afternoon the conditions were really tricky.

"It’s hard to get anything working with tyres in these temperatures, especially as they’ve also re-laid the surface.

"When the temperature is there it’s good, but when it’s cold there really isn’t any grip!"

"However, it was still a good day and we got over 100 laps done, with, I think, one run of 35 laps. So reliability was solid and hats off to everyone for that.

"Performance? Yeah, It’s nice to see yourself at the top of the timesheets but in two-degree temperatures you really can’t learn anything!"

Max Verstappen will take over from his team mate on Tuesday, but the paddock may not have seen the last of the cold and damp weather.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.