FP1: Rosberg makes history with flying 'halo' lap

Mercedes driver Nico Rosberg has set the fastest time in the first free practice for the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps. He made history by doing some flying laps including the halo. Until now teams only tested the system to protect the drivers' heads in a single installation lap, as Force India, Red Bull Racing and Force India did at Spa.

Rosberg posted a 1:48.348 and was seven tenths quicker than Lewis Hamilton. Esteban Ocon made his Manor debut and ended up in P16. McLaren driver Fernando Alonso hit trouble as his team discovered a water leak in his car. Honda will replace his power unit during the break. Jolyon Palmer reported a problem to Renault as his car suddenly went to the right when he hit the brakes.

BE Spa-Francorchamps - 26 August 2016

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