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Senior Writer, F1
Focus on ... a new season
Amid talk of 2017 regulations and last-minute changes to qualifying, it's important not to lose sight of the excitement of a new Formula One season. As with any sport, F1 has the ability to surprise when you least expect it, and so often it has produced a thrilling race just as everyone inside and outside the sport was ready to write it off. On paper, 2016 promises to be the best season since the introduction of the V6 turbo engines two years ago, with Ferrari closing in on Mercedes ahead of a midfiled packed tight with top drivers and teams. What's more Albert Park in Melbourne excels in producing unpredictable results and if it rains during the new qualifying format, the grid could look very unusual indeed. As the old saying goes: "When the flag drops the bulls--- stops". Rarely has Formula One needed a flag to drop as much as it does right now.
In need of a podium
Without a doubt, Kimi Raikkonen needs some form of success this season. It might not extend his future beyond 2016 but Ferrari needs the Finn on his old form to aid any title challenge -- and it's high time we saw the Raikkonen of old. A podium in Australia would be a good start for the Iceman.
In need of points
There are plenty of candidates here -- Haas, Manor and Renault would each relish immediate points, but each of those teams will be taking a patient approach to the new season. That isn't the case with McLaren, who must start the season the points. A championship is unlikely this year but McLaren will be keen to see immediate progress from Honda, starting in Melbourne. Points for Sauber would also be a welcome distraction for a team in trouble.
Weather
After a week of sunshine and temperatures nudging 30C, a cold front is set to sweep through Melbourne on Friday that will bring rain during the first two practice sessions of the 2016 season. The temperatures will remain under 20C on Saturday with more rain promised on Saturday afternoon just as F1's new qualifying format is set to get underway. Chaos is likely to ensue. The sun will be back out on race day, with temperatures forecast at around 24C.
Betting
For the third year in a row, Lewis Hamilton is the overwhelming favourite for the race and the title. He's 5/6 to win the race, with Nico Rosberg (9/4) and Sebastian Vettel (5/1) tipped to be his nearest rivals. Bookies don't have such faith in Kimi Raikkonen, who has odds of 14/1 to win. Optimistic McLaren fans can find 16/1 for either Fernando Alonso or Jenson Button to make the podium.
ESPN prediction
The huge mileage accumulated by Mercedes in winter testing is not insignificant, leaving it in good shape to find the perfect set-up for the opening race. Then add to the fact Melbourne was one of its strongest displays in 2015 and it's hard to look past the world champions again. Ferrari might be coming in strong, but we are still backing Lewis Hamilton to kick off his title defence with a win.