Sebastian Vettel impresses during practice for European Grand Prix

Pastor Maldonado in action in Valencia (GETTY IMAGES)

Red Bull's Sebastian Vettel was the fastest through two practice sessions today for Formula One's European Grand Prix.

The two-time defending world champion, who has won here the past two seasons starting from pole, clocked the day's best lap in the second session of one minute, 39.334 seconds on the 5.4-kilometer (3.3-mile) Valencia Street Circuit.

Force India's Nico Hulkenberg was next, followed by Kamui Kobayashi of Sauber and Mercedes' Michael Schumacher.

Ferrari's Fernando Alonso was seventh, while points leader Lewis Hamilton was 14th.

The top 15 drivers all recorded times within a one-second margin.

Vettel trails Hamilton by two points and Alonso by one ahead of Sunday's race.

Qualifying is on Saturday after the final practice session.

AP