The 2026 Formula 1 season begins with the Australian Grand Prix at Albert Park in Melbourne from March 6 to 8. New regulations introduce slimmer cars and technical changes, promising a competitive shake-up. Mercedes and Ferrari drivers are among the early favorites for victory.
The Australian Grand Prix marks the start of the 2026 Formula 1 season at Albert Park in Melbourne, hosting the event for the second consecutive year as the opener. This circuit, a fixture on the calendar since 1996 except for cancellations in 2020 and 2021 due to the Covid-19 pandemic, was modified ahead of 2022 to enhance speed and overtaking opportunities, particularly at Turns 3 and 11. The 2026 regulations introduce significant changes, including slimmer, more nimble cars that emphasize driver skill and alter racing dynamics, with energy deployment playing a key role.
Pre-season testing indicated a tight field, with no single team dominating. Mercedes, featuring George Russell and Kimi Antonelli, and Ferrari, with Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton, are tipped to contend for the win, especially if Ferrari repeats its strong starts from Bahrain testing. McLaren's Lando Norris, the reigning world champion, and Oscar Piastri, along with Red Bull's Max Verstappen, are also expected to be competitive.
The weekend schedule in UK times includes practice sessions on Friday March 6 starting at 1am, qualifying on Saturday March 7 at 5am, and the race on Sunday March 8 at 4am. Weather forecasts predict a dry, warm event with air temperatures around 24C and no rain, contrasting last year's rainy chaos.
UK and Ireland viewers can watch live on Sky Sports F1, with streaming options via the Sky Sports app or NOW for non-subscribers. Formula 2 and Formula 3 support races also feature, requiring early alarms for British audiences.
