Albert Park opens a new era of Formula One
George Russell led a Mercedes one-two in front of 483,934 fans as eleven teams raced for the first time since 2016.
The 2026 Australian Grand Prix on 8 March opened the first season of Formula One’s new chassis and power-unit rules, and Melbourne delivered a crowd of 483,934 across the event.
George Russell won from Kimi Antonelli in a Mercedes one-two, with Charles Leclerc third for Ferrari. The win put Russell at the top of the drivers’ championship for the first time.
The grid had changed. Cadillac and Audi made their debuts, giving F1 eleven teams for the first time since 2016. Ford returned as Red Bull’s partner and Honda came back as a full supplier.
It was a difficult day for the home favourite: Oscar Piastri was unable to start after a technical problem.
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