Schumacher leads the way after first practice

Michael Schumacher recorded the first Formula 1 lap of the Indianapolis road course, and ended the session fastest.

The Ferrari driver did 25 laps in the hour-long session, chipping away at the fastest time throughout, and ending up with a 1m14.927s. He was two tenths of a second faster than team-mate Rubens Barrichello, and seven-tenths faster than title rival Mika Hakkinen who ended up third.

At the green light to start the session, all the cars sped onto the track to get first impressions of the mix of oval and road course.

The combination of a new track and hard Bridgestone tyres saw a number of incidents, although the only driver to make contact was Giancarlo Fisichella who damaged his Benetton against the Turn 11 tyres.

David Coulthard's session ended on only his second lap when his McLaren rolled to a halt in the pit entry. The Scot then took a pit-scooter to watch his rivals' progress as they learned the track.

Jos Verstappen set the fastest speed through the startline speed trap at 351kph, 216mph.

Jenson Button was fourth quickest, for once not hampered by lack of experience at a new circuit. Button's replacement at Williams for 2001, Juan Montoya, was also in the Williams pit.

The second free practice session starts at 1300 local, 1900BST.

For first practice session results, click here.