Mar.16 (GMM) HRT has survived a close call in Melbourne, after crucial parts of Pedro de la Rosa's chassis did not arrive in time for scrutineering.

The back-of-the-grid Spanish team had to apply to the FIA for an exemption to Thursday's scrutineering deadline, because pieces of the suspension for the second car had yet to arrive from Europe.

And even when de la Rosa's car was ultimately cleared to enter the Albert Park circuit shortly before first practice, the mechanics were still hard at work 'dressing' it for action.

Ultimately the late start was of little consequence, when the sporadic rain around the Victorian capital made a wet deposit just before practice, ensuring that early action was scarce.

But de la Rosa did not even appear later in the session.

More showers are possible later in the day and also on Saturday, but Sunday's season-opening race should be dry.

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