Kimi Raikkonen: 'Third was possible in qualifying'

Kimi Raikkonen believes that Ferrari had the opportunity to be closer to Mercedes during qualifying for the Australian Grand Prix.

The Finn will start from fifth on the grid, one place behind new teammate Sebastian Vettel, but Raikkonen is adamant that his fastest lap around Albert Park could have been quicker but for a couple of mistakes.

He told reporters: "We knew we couldn't fight the Mercedes, at least not in today's qualifying, but third place on the grid was possible.

"In any case, during free practice, we saw that our long runs are pretty good, so we can be confident of having a good race. All we need to do is get a good start and then give it our best, but I think we can fight for a good position.

"As a team, we are working well together and we have a pretty clear picture of the situation. We know we are quick, but we need to improve in all sectors and, as for myself, I have to drive better."

Lewis Hamilton will start from pole position, ahead of Mercedes teammate Nico Rosberg in Melbourne, while Williams's Felipe Massa is third on the grid.