Alonso wary of weather changes ahead of Australian GP qualifying

Melbourne  :  Spanish Formula One driver Fernando Alonso on Friday said his McLaren team would need to factor in potential weather changes ahead of qualifying for the Australian Grand Prix.

The two-time world champion, who was eighth quickest in both free practice sessions on Friday, said he lost time in the first session after spotting an issue in his MCL33's exhaust system, but showed better pace during his second outing, reports Efe.

"Now we need to analyse everything to get the best package for tomorrow," Alonso said.

The 36-year-old Spaniard added that weather forecasts predicted rain for Saturday, when the third free practice and the qualifying session are set to take place.

"The weather is going to affect everyone and we are used to these changeable conditions here, so hopefully we can maximise every opportunity," Alonso added.

He recorded a time of 1:25.896 in the first session and 1:25.200 in the second.

The Australian Grand Prix, the first of the 2018 Formula One season, will be held on Sunday.