Ahead of today’s second practice session, the air temperature is 20 degrees C, while the track temperature is 35 degrees. Thankfully, this morning’s rain clouds have given way to some sunshine, sort of, consequently we can expect some meaningful action over the next ninety minutes.

While the teams couldn’t make full use of the numerous updates this morning, it was interesting to see the Ferraris top the timesheets, while the Red Bulls were right at the other end. Whilst we expect to see the Austrian team reclaim its position as the weekend progresses it was a good start for its Italian rivals. Good performances from Vergne and Bottas, amongst others, also.

The lights go green and Vettel is first out, followed by Perez and Hulkenberg. Vettel and Perez on the prototype hard tyre and Hulkenberg on the ‘traditional’ compound.

Within minutes there are seventeen drivers on track. In no time at all, all seventeen have posted times, Hamilton leading the way with a 1:23.900.

As Ricciardo and Vergne go second and third, continuing the good form shown by Toro Rosso this morning, all but Raikkonen and the Marussias are on track.

Rosberg posts 24.696 to make it a Mercedes 1-2, the German team seeking to take its third consecutive pole this weekend.

The strong tailwind sees Hamilton spin at T11, the Mercedes driver showing his frustration with himself as he rides the kerbs making his way back on to the track.

Rosberg posts 23.801 to take the top spot, maintaining the Mercedes 1-2, as Raikkonen goes third with a 24.493 ahead of Alonso.

Sixteen minutes into the session, with all twenty-two drivers having posted times, a majority of the drivers are back in their garages allowing us to catch our breath after a frantic start to the session.

The first to switch to slicks this morning, Vergne is the first driver to switch to the option (medium) compound this afternoon.

From out of nowhere, Webber produces a 23.112 and teammate Vettel a 23.446 as the ‘normal order’ is restored.

Vergne (option) improves to fifth, as Rosberg, Hulkenberg and Ricciardo also make the switch.

Williams reveals that it is carrying out front wing comparisons as Caterham reveals that it is using different set –ups on both cars in order to obtain as much data as possible.

On the ‘normal’ hard tyres, Alonso goes quickest with a 23.030 as teammate Massa goes third (23.324). Rosberg (option) goes fifth (23.398).