This week’s F1 race is the 2026 Chinese Grand Prix. It’s the first sprint weekend of the year, bringing anticipation to an already interesting new season. The F1 sprint race format debuted in 2021 at Silverstone. Since then, the way sprints work has been altered in many ways to make them more exciting and higher-stakes. Despite these changes, many fans and drivers are still against sprints. 

After months of anticipation, the wait is finally over. The 2026 Formula 1 season is starting this Sunday at 4am! Despite the early start, the Australian Grand Prix is going to be an amazing way to begin the season. Speculation and predictions rooted in pre-season testing results will finally be challenged when cars go racing for the first time this season.

New regulations mean that 2026 will be a career-defining season for many drivers. Talent will be exposed and reputations either cemented or shattered. Charles Leclerc, Lando Norris and Lewis Hamilton are not unfamiliar with being under the spotlight by media and fans, but in 2026, these three will be even more heavily scrutinised.