F1 2026 Season Opens in Australia

The 2026 season marks one of the most significant technical shifts in Formula 1's history, with newly designed power units mandated to deliver a 50:50 split between internal combustion engine and electrical power. These engines will run on 100% renewable fuel, a key component of the sport's goal to be Net Zero Carbon by 2030. Cars are now smaller, lighter, and narrower, with the wheelbase shortened by 200mm to create a more nimble vehicle. The Drag Reduction System (DRS) has been replaced by a new active aerodynamics system, featuring "X" and "Z" modes that drivers can switch between on designated parts of the track to manage drag and downforce. The grid expands to 22 cars for the first time since 2016 with the arrival of two new entities. German manufacturer Audi enters as a works team, having taken over the Sauber outfit and developing its own power unit. American brand Cadillac makes its debut as a completely new team, utilizing Ferrari power units in its first season. This expanded grid sees the return of seasoned drivers Sergio Pérez and Valtteri Bottas, who will race for the new Cadillac team. The off-season also saw seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton make a blockbuster move from Mercedes to join Charles Leclerc at Ferrari. Reigning champion Lando Norris enters the season defending his first World Drivers' Championship, which he secured in 2025 after a season-long battle with Max Verstappen and his McLaren teammate Oscar Piastri. That title ended a four-year reign for Verstappen. The return of the Australian Grand Prix as the season opener restores a long-standing tradition, after the slot was held by Bahrain for several years. The Albert Park street circuit first hosted the race in 1996 and has been the site of 39 Grands Prix. Ferrari is the most successful constructor at the Melbourne track with nine victories.