New Start for F1: What to Know About the 2026 Australian Grand Prix

The season launches with new rules that promise to reshape both cars and engines. Early test days in Barcelona and Bahrain offer only a glimpse, making predictions tricky.

Grid Shake‑Ups

• Audi and Cadillac have joined the grid, but are not expected to challenge for top spots immediately.
• Traditional powerhouses — McLaren, Mercedes, Red Bull, and Ferrari — look poised for pole positions, though a surprise akin to Brawn’s 2009 season remains possible.

Broadcast & Streaming

• Sky Sports will cover every session in the UK for a second time around a decade after launching coverage.
• Viewers can stream via Sky Go or NOW TV, while Channel 4 offers highlights of qualifying and the race.
• Across the Atlantic, Apple TV replaces ESPN for all 2026 races in a five‑year deal worth ~$140 million per year.
• Every session will stream on Apple TV.
• Live events (Miami, Monaco, Britain, Italy, Austin) will also be shown in US IMAX theatres.
• Apple’s partnership with Netflix brings Season 8 of Drive to Survive and the Canadian Grand Prix to the platform.
• For live commentary, Motorsport.com covers every session from practice through race.

Weekend Schedule

Note: Times are listed in both local Melbourne time and your own timezone for easy planning.

Weather Outlook

• Friday: Hot, dry opening day. Temps ~20 °C, minimal rain.
• Saturday: Cloudier but still dry. Temps 19–21 °C.
• Sunday: Sunny race day, temps rise from 20 °C at start to ~23 °C by finish. Calm wind speeds, moderate humidity.