From McLaren drivers fighting to surprise threats for big points, and from an unsettled weather forecast to new faces in front-running teams starting at the back, here are five things to keep an eye on when the season kicks off in Melbourne…
1. No team orders to start the season
Team orders – or ‘Papaya Rules’ at McLaren – were a major talking point in the second half of last year such was the focus on whether there was a chance for Lando Norris to catch Max Verstappen in the drivers’ championship. After the end of the European season, Oscar Piastri started supporting Norris’ bid, but it didn’t stop him winning himself in Azerbaijan.
.webp?ssl=1 "The state of play at Haas after three rounds of the 2026 season")
.webp?ssl=1 "The state of play at Alpine after three rounds of the 2026 season")
