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Monday, Mar 02, 2026

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2026 Formula One Australian Grand Prix: Start Time, Complete Schedule and Viewing Details

The season-opening F1 race in Melbourne is set for March eight with full practice, qualifying and broadcast information for global audiences
The 2026 Formula One season begins with the Australian Grand Prix at the iconic Albert Park Circuit in Melbourne on Sunday, March eight, featuring the first round of the year’s twenty-four race championship.

The Formula 1 Qatar Airways Australian Grand Prix 2026 is scheduled to start at three p.m. local time (Australian Eastern Daylight Time, UTC+11), with practice and qualifying sessions taking place across the preceding days as teams prepare for the new season under updated technical regulations.

Practice sessions run on Friday and Saturday, with the third free practice and qualifying set for Saturday afternoon before Sunday’s race.

This start time means that for viewers in the United States the broadcast will begin late on Saturday evening (around eleven p.m. Eastern Time), and similarly adjusted timings apply for fans in other regions to accommodate the time-zone difference.

The grand prix weekend brings high anticipation as Formula One teams converge in Melbourne after global pre-season activity, and the race’s position as the championship opener underlines its significance in shaping the title fight.

Fans worldwide can watch the action live through a variety of platforms tailored to their regions, from free-to-air and subscription broadcasters in Australia to international services and dedicated Formula 1 streaming options.

The Albert Park event promises to deliver thrilling competition as drivers and constructors begin their quests for points and prestige in the 2026 world championship campaign.
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