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The Formula 1 grid is split on how much it expected Mercedes to dominate qualifying for the 2026 season-opening Australian Grand Prix after George Russell led a Silver Arrows 1-2. Russell took his eighth career pole after beating team-mate Kimi Antonelli by 0.
George Russell will start the first race of the 2026 Formula 1 season on pole position, after an impressive qualifying performance in Melbourne. The Mercedes driver pipped his teammate Kimi Antonelli by 0.
The first qualifying session of the new Formula 1 season is in the books. In Melbourne, all 11 teams and their drivers hit the track for the first time, fighting to lock in the fastest lap and the best possible starting spot for Sunday.