Melbourne’s Albert Park was rocking with fans on Thursday, with the paddock buzzing, too – and that’s despite the fact there were no Formula 1 cars on the on-track bill. Rarely has there been so much anticipation for a F1 season, which many insiders feel has the potential to be one of the closest the sport has ever seen…
Can McLaren prove that last year wasn’t a one-off?
McLaren arrived in Melbourne with the favourites’ tag in tow, such was their accomplished performance in Bahrain pre-season testing – helped in part by Lando Norris’ superb race run on day two and the data showing they were quick over one lap, too.
.webp?ssl=1 "James Hinchcliffe picks his top five drivers of the 2026 Formula 1 season so far")
