P1racenews AI automatic summary:
McLaren’s Lando Norris set the fastest time during opening practice for Formula 1’s Australian Grand Prix, which was disrupted by
“Lando Norris posted a time of 1:18.564s to narrowly beat World Champion Max Verstappen by 0.018s at the high-speed Albert Park circuit in sunny Melbourne. George Russell from Mercedes took the third spot, with Charles Leclerc, Yuki Tsunoda, and Sergio Perez following closely to make the top six separated by just 0.078s. The session was halted due to Alexander Albon’s crash as he lost control of his Williams FW46, hitting the wall at Turn 6 and then the concrete at Turn 7. Albon walked away unharmed, but the car sustained significant damage, leading to the session suspension for debris clearing. Some other drivers also faced difficulties, including Fernando Alonso, George Russell, Valtteri Bottas, and Max Verstappen during the session, adding to the drama. Lance Stroll took seventh place, Carlos Sainz made a comeback at eighth after appendicitis, and Lewis Hamilton finished ninth after a challenging run through the grass. Oscar Piastri completed the top 10 representing McLaren in their home race.”
