The 2026 Formula 1 season is set to begin at the Albert Park circuit in Melbourne, Australia, starting this Thursday, March 6th, with Argentine driver Franco Colapinto participating for the third year in a row. This season comes after test sessions held in Barcelona and Bahrain, and it is eagerly anticipated as teams prepare to compete in the opening Grand Prix of a calendar that consists of 24 races.

Due to the time difference between Argentina and Melbourne (which is +13 hours), the activities will commence a day earlier in Argentina. The first practice session is scheduled for March 5 at 10:30 PM local Argentine time, with the second session following on Friday at 2 AM. The final practice will take place on March 6 at 10:30 PM, leading into the qualifying session planned for Saturday, March 7, at 2 AM, where teams will set their starting positions for the race.

The Melbourne Grand Prix marks a significant event in the F1 season, not only for showcasing the world-class talent of the drivers but also for the technical innovations that teams bring to the first race of the year. With 11 teams and 22 drivers, including the prominent participation of Franco Colapinto, this race will set the tone for the competitive landscape in the upcoming season.