Leclerc Sets the Pace in the First Practice of the 2026 Australian Grand Prix
Charles Leclerc led the first practice session of the new Formula 1 season, setting an impressive time on the circuit. Lewis Hamilton secured a 1-2 for Ferrari in the opening session of the 2026 Australian Grand Prix.
Leclerc, with an outstanding final lap, surpassed his rivals by 0.469 seconds, marking the beginning of a new era in Formula 1 with renewed regulations.
Max Verstappen, although he finished third, maintained an intense battle for the best times with Leclerc for much of the session. Ferrari’s last run put both drivers at the top.
Isaac Hadjar, Verstappen’s teammate at Red Bull, remained competitive, achieving the fourth-best time.
Arvid Lindblad, an 18-year-old driver, was a surprise by obtaining the fifth-best time in his Racing Bull.
McLaren faced problems, with Oscar Piastri losing power and Lando Norris suffering gearbox issues, which limited their performance.Mercedes, considered a title contender, failed to match Ferrari’s pace in this practice session.
Aston Martin had a complicated session, with engine problems that limited their participation on the track. Fernando Alonso was unable to complete any laps.
Aston Martin’s problems allowed the Cadillac team to avoid the last positions, although Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Pérez recorded times below the expected pace.
Audi showed its potential, with Gabriel Bortoleto and Nico Hülkenberg finishing in ninth and tenth place.
Esteban Ocon and Oliver Bearman also showed a competitive performance.
Carlos Sainz and Alexander Albon failed to stand out in this session.
Franco Colapinto and Pierre Gasly did not offer significant improvements for Alpine, remaining behind in the time sheets.
