Hamilton, Rosberg 1-2 in first Abu Dhabi GP practice session

Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton of Britain smiles in the paddock prior to the start of the first free practice at the Yas Marina racetrack in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, Friday, Nov. 21, 2014. With double points on offer in the Formula One finale, there could yet be a bitter twist to the fascinating title duel between Mercedes teammates Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The Emirates Formula One Grand Prix will take place on Sunday. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno) (The Associated Press)

Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton of Britain adjusts his cap in the paddock prior to the start of the first free practice at the Yas Marina racetrack in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, Friday, Nov. 21, 2014. With double points on offer in the Formula One finale, there could yet be a bitter twist to the fascinating title duel between Mercedes teammates Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The Emirates Formula One Grand Prix will take place on Sunday. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno) (The Associated Press)

Lewis Hamilton beat Formula One title rival Nico Rosberg in the first practice session of the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on Friday.

The British driver posted a best lap of 1 minute, 43.476 seconds at Yas Marina circuit to finish .133 seconds quicker than his Mercedes teammate.

Fernando Alonso, preparing for his final race for Ferrari, was third best, .1708 behind.

Sebastian Vettel, who is leaving Red Bull to replace Alonso at Ferrari next year, was .1858 back in fourth spot.

There is a second practice later Friday, and a third on Saturday before qualifying.

Hamilton, who is bidding for his second F1 title, leads Rosberg by 17 points overall. Double points are available in Sunday's race.