Mercedes driver George Russell won the Formula One Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne on Sunday, claiming victory in the opening race of the 2026 season and leading a dominant one-two finish for the team.
Russell delivered a commanding performance at the Albert Park circuit, finishing ahead of his teammate Kimi Antonelli, while Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc secured third place on the podium.
The race featured an early battle between Russell and Leclerc for the lead before Mercedes gained a decisive advantage during a virtual safety car period, allowing the team to make a strategic pit stop and switch tyres.
Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, now driving for Ferrari, finished fourth, while defending champion Lando Norris came fifth. Max Verstappen recovered from a qualifying crash that forced him to start at the back of the grid to finish sixth.
The race also saw drama before the start when Australian driver Oscar Piastri crashed on the formation lap, preventing him from competing in his home Grand Prix.
Mercedes’ dominant performance in Melbourne marks its first victory at the circuit since 2019 and signals a strong start to the new Formula One season