Hamilton tops final practice at Melbourne

F1 Grand Prix, GP Australia, Albert Park

Lewis Hamilton emerged as the fastest man in final practice ahead of qualifying for the Australian Grand Prix. He proved nearly a second faster than closest competitor Sebastian Vettel.

Hamilton already proved fastest in the early stages of running when everybody used the Pirelli medium compound, and appeared to have even more pace in hand on the soft, as he broke off his final attempt, having improved his own first and second sector times.

Williams once again positioned themselves as the main competitors behind Mercedes, preparing themselves for a tough battle with Ferrari for "best of the rest".

Of note was some drama for Marcus Ericsson who did a half spin while Pastor Maldonado repeatedly cut some grass on the outside of turn 9.

Marussia Manor meanwhile were still hard at work in the paddock and confirmed they would not compete in qualifying as they continue to struggle with electrical issues. The team will instead focus on getting its cars ready for the Malaysian Grand Prix, set to take place in 15 days.