Only an indomitable Sainz stands up to Verstappen in Melbourne. Fernando Alonso made a mistake in turn 6 that relegated him to tenth position on the grid.
Alex Albon's adventure, with the only Williams on the track due to Logan Sargeant's breakdown, did not go beyond that Q2. James Vowles beat his garage mate George Russell by hand. Daniel Ricciardo was eliminated for exceeding the track limits. A cause for loud celebration for Kevin Magnussen, saved by the bell.