F1 Calendar 2026: Australian Grand Prix Kicks Off the Season
The 2026 Formula 1 season is set to commence with the Australian Grand Prix on March 8, 2026, in Melbourne. This race marks a pivotal moment for fans and teams, as it not only signifies the start of a new season but also the return of the Australian Grand Prix after a two-year hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
The race will begin at 15:00 local time (AEDT), which corresponds to 04:00 GMT. The anticipation surrounding the event is palpable, especially with the current weather forecast predicting a dry and warm weekend, with temperatures around 24°C. This favorable weather is expected to enhance the racing experience for both teams and fans attending the event.
Mercedes drivers George Russell and Kimi Antonelli have already made headlines by securing a 1-2 grid position during the qualifying rounds. This outcome has confirmed the worst fears of their rivals, setting the stage for a competitive race. As the season opener, the Australian Grand Prix will be crucial for establishing momentum in the championship standings.
The 2026 F1 season is structured to include a total of 23 races, concluding with the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on December 6, 2026. This expanded calendar reflects the growing global interest in Formula 1, as well as the sport’s commitment to providing fans with more racing action throughout the year.
In terms of broadcasting, Apple TV will serve as the exclusive U.S. broadcaster for the 2026 season, while fans in the UK can catch the Australian Grand Prix live on Sky Sports. Additionally, F1 TV Premium will be included with Apple TV, allowing subscribers to stream all F1 races seamlessly.
The Australian Grand Prix has been a staple on the F1 calendar since 1996, with the notable exceptions of 2020 and 2021 when the race was canceled due to the pandemic. The return of this iconic race is a significant development for the sport, as it not only brings back a beloved event but also highlights the resilience of Formula 1 in overcoming challenges posed by global events.
As the teams prepare for the season opener, the excitement surrounding the 2026 F1 calendar continues to build. Fans are eager to see how the season unfolds, particularly with the new dynamics introduced by the latest regulations and the ongoing rivalry among teams. Details remain unconfirmed regarding any further changes to the calendar or race formats as the season progresses.
