The 2026 Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne was a spectacular start to the new season. At the Albert Park Circuit, fans witnessed a strong Mercedes performance, surprising rookie performances, and an impressive recovery drive from Max Verstappen.

From pole position, George Russell (Mercedes) controlled the race. In the opening phase, he had to defend against Charles Leclerc (Ferrari), but thanks to a strong strategy and a pit stop during an early Virtual Safety Car, Mercedes took control of the race. Russell then never relinquished the lead.

His teammate Kimi Antonelli, the young Mercedes rookie, drove an impressive race and finished second. This secured Mercedes a 1-2 finish in the first race of the season.

Third place went to Charles Leclerc (Ferrari), who contended for the win for a long time but ultimately had to settle for the podium due to a less favourable tire strategy.

There was plenty of action further down the field too. Max Verstappen (Red Bull) had to start from last place after qualifying issues, but drove a strong race and fought his way back to sixth place.

For Oscar Piastri (McLaren), however, his home weekend was a big disappointment. The Australian crashed before the start during the warm-up lap and was therefore unable to start his home race.

Furthermore, there were some notable performances. Oliver Bearman (Haas) drove to an impressive seventh place, and rookie Arvid Lindblad (Racing Bulls) scored points with an eighth place in his first Formula 1 race.

With this victory, George Russell immediately secured the first win of the season and Mercedes took a strong first step in the championship.

2026 F1 Australian Grand Prix Results

1. George Russell – Mercedes

2. Andrea Kimi Antonelli – Mercedes

3. Charles Leclerc – Ferrari

4. Lewis Hamilton – Ferrari

5. Lando Norris – McLaren

6. Max Verstappen – Red Bull

7. Oliver Bearman – Haas

8. Arvid Lindblad – Racing Bulls

9. Gabriel Bortoleto – Audi

10. Pierre Gasly – Alpine

11. Esteban Ocon – Haas

12. Alexander Albon – Williams

13. Liam Lawson – Racing Bulls

14. Franco Colapinto – Alpine

15. Carlos Sainz – Williams

16. Sergio Pérez – Cadillac

17. Lance Stroll – Aston Martin

18. Fernando Alonso – Aston Martin (DNF)

19. Valtteri Bottas – Cadillac (DNF)

20. Isack Hadjar – Red Bull (DNF)

21. Oscar Piastri – McLaren (DNS)

22. Nico Hülkenberg – Audi (DNS)