<p>Three-time defending world champion Max Verstappen posted a time of 1:31.344 on the first day of Formula One preseason testing in Bahrain on Wednesday, more than a second better than his closest competitor.</p><p>The Red Bull Racing star also led drivers with 143 laps completed, competing in both sessions. Verstappen posted the time in the final half hour on C3 compound tires.</p><p>Lando Norris was a distant second for McLaren, Carlos Sainz was third with Daniel Ricciardo coming in fourth.</p><p>Verstappen shoots for four straight titles when the season opens March 2 at Bahrain International Circuit.</p><p>Preseason testing resumes Thursday.</p>
<p>Three-time defending world champion Max Verstappen posted a time of 1:31.344 on the first day of Formula One preseason testing in Bahrain on Wednesday, more than a second better than his closest competitor.</p><p>The Red Bull Racing star also led drivers with 143 laps completed, competing in both sessions. Verstappen posted the time in the final half hour on C3 compound tires.</p><p>Lando Norris was a distant second for McLaren, Carlos Sainz was third with Daniel Ricciardo coming in fourth.</p><p>Verstappen shoots for four straight titles when the season opens March 2 at Bahrain International Circuit.</p><p>Preseason testing resumes Thursday.</p>