F1 testing takes place annually, a few weeks before the start of the new season.

All 10 teams head to the same circuit and spend three days running their new cars in different configurations to measure performance.

Teams tweak things such as fuel load, tyre compounds, and wing settings to analyse how the car reacts in different circumstances.

They simulate different race-weekend situations, such as long race runs on high fuel and worn tyres as well as qualifying laps on soft rubber and low fuel, in order to try to establish strengths and weakness.

Each team runs only one car, meaning a maximum of 10 can be on track at one time.

The two drivers each teams employs split duties evenly, meaning each undertakes one-and-a-half days of running.

For drivers who have just graduated to F1 or have joined a new team, testing is an integral moment to adjust to new in-car systems, mastering the complicated button layouts on the steering wheel, and developing a working relationship with their new race engineer over the radio.