Despite finishing at the tail end of the time sheets yesterday, Max Verstappen declared himself satisfied with his day's work, and emphasised the quality of Toro Rosso's new Ferrari power unit.

The young Dutchman was momentarily sidelined in the morning following an electrical issue but later got down to work, gradually setting up his STR11 which, in its present basic form, will evolve when the second pre-season test gets underway next week.

"For us, the most important thing right now is the mileage, and understanding the car," Verstappen insisted.

"We didn’t really focus on the times, just on getting used to the car together with the engine package, because it was all new for us. We stayed on the medium tyres, they were quite good."

In addition to its definitive livery which should appear next week, Toro Rosso will also introduce a series of upgrades which are currently missing due to the time constraints imposed on the Faenza squad.

"Well, for sure you will see some colours on the car! And then for sure we will get some updates because I mean the car was quite on the limit in time, so we couldn’t bring all the parts. They are still in production."

Follow live coverage and timing from pre-season testing here

Who is driving when during the first pre-season test

GALLERY: Pre-season testing day two

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.

Recent Posts

Sutil denies fraud allegations, lawyer claims he’s a victim

Intrigue is swirling around Adrian Sutil after Grand Prix driver was arrested in Germany on…

43 mins ago

A final farewell to motorsport’s single Triple Crown winner

On this day in 1975, a somber mood enveloped St Albans Abbey in Hertfordshire as…

1 hour ago

Russell on McLaren’s team-order talk: ‘Not acceptable of fair’

As Abu Dhabi prepares to crown a world champion, McLaren has finally cracked the door…

2 hours ago

Abu Dhabi GP: Norris edges Verstappen in opening practice

Lando Norris opened the 2025 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix weekend in commanding fashion, topping the…

3 hours ago

Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Free Practice 1 - Results

Full results from Free Practice 1 for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix at Yas Marina,…

3 hours ago

F1 drivers squeeze in tradition before Abu Dhabi epic

On the eve of Formula 1’s thrilling 2025 title decider in Abu Dhabi, the entire…

4 hours ago