F1 LIVE | Technical issues plague FP1 in Melbourne as Leclerc sets the pace

This season arrives with some of the most significant regulation changes in the sport’s history. From power units and chassis to tyres and fuel, virtually every aspect of the cars has been overhauled. These sweeping changes led to extensive testing, with teams participating in sessions in Barcelona and two separate weeks at the Bahrain International Circuit in Sakhir.

With testing now complete, all eyes turn to the season opener in Australia. While many teams are eager to hit the track under the new regulations, Aston Martin’s outlook is less optimistic. Team Principal Adrian Newey has been candid about the challenges posed by the Honda power unit, raising concerns that his team may struggle to complete the full distance of the Australian Grand Prix.

Stay up to date with every twist and turn from the Australian Grand Prix by following our Liveblog, as the first on-track action of the 2026 season takes centre stage Down Under.

The action on track begins early for European fans, with the first free practice session scheduled for Friday at 02:30 CET, followed by FP2 later the same day at 06:00 CET.

Saturday will feature the final practice session at 02:30 CET before qualifying takes place at 06:00 CET, setting the grid for the season opener. The race itself is scheduled for Sunday at 05:00 CET, marking the official start of what promises to be a highly anticipated 2026 championship.