General · 5 March 2026
F1 2026 Begins: The major storylines before the lights out in Melbourne
As the 2026 campaign kicks off in Melbourne, reigning champion Lando Norris faces a steep climb to defend his crown. Despite McLaren’s recent dominance, pre-season data suggests Ferrari and Mercedes have gained an early edge in mastering the new 50/50 electrical power regulations. Meanwhile, the grid expands for the first time in a decade as Cadillac debuts as the eleventh entrant. All eyes now turn to Friday’s practice to see if Red Bull has truly overcome its previous mechanical hurdles.
Reported by nbcnews.com · How we write briefs