World champion Lewis Hamilton on Friday topped the first free practice seassion for the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix ahead of Mercedes team-mate Nico Rosberg.
Hamilton clocked 1 minute 43.754 seconds on the 5.554-kilometres Yas Marina Circuit, with Rosberg on 1:43.895. Kimi Raikkonen of Finland was a distant third for Ferrari in 1:44.500.
Hamilton secured the 2014 world title in Abu Dhabi but clinched this year's crown, the third of his career, with three races to spare. He will now want to end the season in style and on a high with victory on Sunday, after Rosberg topped the last two races.
The second practice session was set for later Friday, qualifying is Saturday and the spectacular day-into-night race Sunday.
