What time is qualifying for the 2026 Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix?

Qualifying for the 2026 Australian Grand Prix took place on Saturday, March 7, from 5:00 to 6:00 GMT (16:00 to 17:00 local AEDT time at Albert Park).

Multiple sources confirm this schedule: it started at 05:00 GMT per RacingNews365 and ESPN, aligning with the event's standard Friday-Saturday format ahead of the Sunday, March 8 race. The session has concluded, with George Russell securing pole position for Mercedes ahead of Kimi Antonelli, following Max Verstappen's crash that left him without a Q3 time. Sky Sports' broadcast listed post-qualifying coverage starting Sunday at 2:30am GMT, indicating the session ended earlier Saturday GMT.

The qualifying session was held on March 7 from 5:00 to 6:00 GMT.
George Russell claimed pole position for Mercedes.
Max Verstappen crashed during qualifying, impacting his final position.
The race takes place on March 8 at Albert Park.

This session is important because it determines the starting grid for the race, which is scheduled for March 8. Drivers' performance in qualifying influences race strategy and potential outcomes.

Stay tuned for race day updates and results.

References: Sky Sports; RacingNews365; ESPN; Formula1.com

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