Leclerc drives 2018 Ferrari in France

Charles Leclerc got his hands on Ferrari's 2018 car on Thursday as he drove more than two grands prix distance at Circuit Paul Ricard in Pirelli's tyre test. Driving alongside Mercedes' Valtteri Bottas, Leclerc completed 129 laps in France as he prepares for a Scuderia switch in 2019.

With F1's two biggest teams in testing this week, the event is seen as crucial for Pirelli in their development of next season's compounds.

Many eyes were on Leclerc, however, as he drove a Ferrari for the first time since it was announced he will replace Kimi Raikkonen in 2019.

Today’s #F1Testing wraps up with 129 laps completed by @Charles_Leclerc with @ScuderiaFerrari at @PaulRicardTrack. #Fit4F1 pic.twitter.com/FyAfRciDvi — Pirelli Motorsport (@pirellisport) September 20, 2018

Driving with the number 16 on his car, Leclerc tested slick tyres on a clear day in Le Castellet.

Vettel will take over duties in the Ferrari on Friday, with Bottas once again at the wheel for Mercedes.

#F1Testing. We came to test the tyres, while others came to test the colours... 1 to 10 how does @Charles_Leclerc look in red? pic.twitter.com/wYhQRPQwGA — Pirelli Motorsport (@pirellisport) September 20, 2018