Who to watch at the Australian F1 GP

ONES TO WATCH AT THE AUSTRALIAN GRAND PRIX:

THE CONTENDERS:

* LEWIS HAMILTON (Mercedes): The man to beat. The reigning world champ, polesitter and two-time winner at Albert Park - including last year. Was the fastest driver across all three practice sessions and qualifying

* NICO ROSBERG (Mercedes): Intent on not losing out to teammate Hamilton yet again, the German is hoping rule changes work in his favour. Won the race in 2014, 30 years after his dad did

* SEBASTIAN VETTEL (Ferrari): With an improved car at his disposal, the four-time champion is confident he can trouble Mercedes despite qualifying in third behind the pair

THE DARK HORSE:

* MAX VERSTAPPEN (Toro Rosso): A real chance of a podium. The 18-year-old surprised many to qualify fifth fastest, with a little help from Ferrari; his Toro Rosso is powered by their 2015 engine

THE AUSSIE:

* DANIEL RICCIARDO (Red Bull): Starting from eighth and is aiming to finish top six. Long runs at testing suggested his Red Bull would have better race pace than in qualifying. He finished sixth last year from seventh on the grid

THE ROOKIES:

* RIO HARYANTO (Manor): Indonesia's first F1 driver didn't have a great start to the weekend, crashing in pitlane just minutes into the final practice session. It cost him a three grid spot penalty

* JOLYON PALMER (Renault): The eldest (25) and arguably best of the rookies. Made it to the second qualifying session and will start from 14th

* PASCAL WEHRLEIN (Manor): The slowest in qualifying and the first to be eliminated under the new system