Chiasso, Switzerland, 20 April 2013 | AAP

Relentless rain prevented any play on the opening day of Australia’s Fed Cup World Group Play-off tie against Switzerland.

With the clay court in Chiasso, southern Switzerland, under covers and water, officials had no choice but to suspend play until Sunday morning.

More rain is forecast over the weekend, raising the possibility of the tie extending into Monday, but officials are hopeful conditions will ease.

Any further significant delays could result in the tie being postponed, with Australian spearhead Sam Stosur among the players scheduled to compete in the claycourt event in Stuttgart, Germany this week.

Stosur was due first up on court for Australia in the crucial opening singles match against Swiss No.2 Stefanie Voegele, scheduled for midday local time (2000 AEST).

But with the rain not letting up, officials decided at 1430 to reschedule play for 0930 (1730 AEST) on Sunday.

The delay might prove to be a blessing in disguise for Stosur, who admitted she was racing against time to be fit due to a troublesome calf.

Check in with @TennisAustralia on Twitter for updates on the weather situation.