Motorsport · Formula 2 · 2026

Date & time

6 Mar 2026, 04:55

Round

1

Venue

Albert Park Circuit

Location

Melbourne, Australia

The 2026 FIA Formula 2 Championship kicks off its season with a high-stakes qualifying session at the Albert Park Circuit. With several high-profile rookies joining the grid, including IndyCar standout Colton Herta and Alpine junior Gabriele Minì, the half-hour shootout is expected to be a frantic search for track position. Albert Park is a semi-permanent street circuit that punishes the smallest errors, particularly at the high-speed Turn 9-10 chicane. Track evolution will play a massive role as the Formula 1 rubber continues to lay down, meaning the final seconds of the session are likely to see the fastest times. Drivers must navigate the dual challenge of finding clear air among 22 cars and managing the Medium Pirelli tires to ensure they have peak grip for their one "golden lap."