F1 Schedule: 2026 Season Kicks Off with Australian Grand Prix
F1 Schedule: 2026 Season Kicks Off with Australian Grand Prix
The central question surrounding the upcoming 2026 F1 season is: when does it begin? The answer is that the season kicks off with the Australian Grand Prix on March 8, 2026, at Albert Park in Melbourne.
The race is scheduled to start at 17:00 local time in Australia, which translates to 11 p.m. ET on March 7 for U.S. viewers. This marks the beginning of a season that will run from March 7 to December 6, 2026, featuring a total of 23 races.
Apple TV has secured exclusive broadcasting rights for the 2026 F1 season in the United States, and subscribers to Apple TV will also have access to F1 TV Premium. This partnership aims to enhance the viewing experience for fans across the country.
The Australian Grand Prix has been a staple on the F1 calendar since 1996, with the notable exceptions of 2020 and 2021 when the event was canceled due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The race weekend will also feature F3 and F2 races leading up to the main event.
During the Australian GP weekend, the air temperature in Melbourne is expected to hover around 24°C, providing a pleasant atmosphere for both drivers and spectators alike.
As the 2026 season unfolds, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will conclude the racing calendar on December 6, 2026. This season promises to be an exciting one for F1 fans, with a diverse range of races planned across different locations.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding any potential changes to the race formats or additional events that may be introduced throughout the season. However, the anticipation for the Australian Grand Prix remains high as fans prepare for the return of live racing.
