` It 's a shame that qualifying has been put back , '' the two-time world champion said , `` but it was the right decision given the track conditions , especially as the white lines were really too slippery . '' Only one of three qualifying sessions possible in Melbourne on Saturday . The other two sessions start six days before Sunday 's season - opening race . Mercedes ' Nico ##la sets the fastest time ahead of Fernando Alonso . Williams ' Pastor Maldonado among the other drivers to be classified early .
Only one of three qualifying sessions possible in Melbourne on Saturday . The other two sessions start six days before Sunday 's season - opening race . Mercedes ' Nico ##la sets the fastest time ahead of Fernando Alonso . Williams ' Pastor Maldonado among the other drivers to be classified early .