P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Live coverage of Friday practice from the 2026 F1 Australian Grand Prix
The 2026 Formula season kicks off with FP2 after Leclerc’s Ferrari topped FP1 ahead of Hamilton. Unfortunately, Verstappen encounters trouble with Red Bull and remains stuck in the garage. Aston Martin faces difficulties due to battery issues in FP1. This year, the ground effect cars introduced in 2022 have been replaced with smaller, lighter machines aimed at improving on-track action. One of the major changes for the new season is the 50/50 split between internal combustion and electrical power units, raising concerns about the impact on the racing spectacle. In 2026, we witness the return of 22 drivers to the grid for the first time since 2016, with new teams like Cadillac and Audi joining the competition. The Australian Grand Prix on Friday will give us a glimpse of the challenges drivers face with the revised power units. Renault-powered Red Bull and Ferrari, alongside McLaren and Mercedes, are expected to lead the pack based on pre-season testing results.
