Formula 1 , the premier motorsport series that combines 200+ mph racing, cutting edge tech, and glamorous global locations the likes of Monte Carlo, is poised for a huge 2026. New

Melbourne plays host to the opening race on the Formula 1 calendar, and practice sessions have taken place for the season's first Grand Prix

F1 is celebrating the 30th anniversary of its first race in Melbourne. Quinn Rooney / Prime Tire Newsletter | This is The Athletic’s F1 newsletter. Sign up here to receive Prime Tire directly in your inbox twice a week during the season and weekly in the offseason.

Formula 1 has established a track record of calling off races when conflict or civil unrest erupts in the Middle East, although this season's schedule remains unchanged for now. A United States base in Bahrain has been shaken by an explosion amid rising tensions, prompting concerns about the forthcoming Grands Prix in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia.

Escalating tensions in the Middle East have raised questions about what might happen to the Bahrain Grand Prix and Saudi Arabia Grand Prix in April.

Ferrari enjoyed a 1-2 in the opening practice session of 2026 in Melbourne, before Oscar Piastri took his McLaren top in the afternoon.

As the conflict between the USA, Israel and Iran continues to destabilise the Middle East, F1 appear to be putting in some contingency plans