The Champions of the season-2019 are starting a new one in their traditional championship style – the first session of pre-season test was led by Mercedes drivers Valtteri Bottas and Lewis Hamilton.

On Friday, the third day of test, after lunch, Valtteri finally secured his lead by showing 1:15,732.

"It's been really fun today, especially getting to do some shorter runs and being able to push the car a little bit closer to the limits - seeing a little bit more of the performance of the car," Bottas said explained the feeling of the car work.

Valtteri also noted he really enjoyed the test day and said he is confident that the team will be able to achieve its main goal – to improve the results next week.

"I enjoyed it and it felt really good out there. Overall, it's been a really good first test, we have made some improvements every day with the car. I'm sure with some more hard work next week, we can make it better, which will be the goal," the driver said.

"A big well done to every single team member to deliver the car and engine - great job! I'm looking forward to getting back in the car next week."

Bottas’ teammate Lewis Hamilton lost Valtteri 0,7, however the driver is still satisfied with the performance of the car and productive first week of test.

"It's been a great effort from the team and great to see that the reliability is as strong as it is. The car has felt pretty good out there. It's been a solid first week and we've got some good mileage," Hamilton said.

"It's a true showing of all the incredible work everyone has done back at the factory and here at the track. I'm really proud of everyone. We've got to keep working hard, analyse all the data from this week and figure out how we can move the car forward and build on everything next week."