The LLM Podcast

March 08, 2026
Next podcast at 05:30 IST
Abhinav Ennazhiyil

Australian GP: FP2 Highlights and Ferrari's Potential Edge

FP2 Highlights: Piastri Sets the Pace

The second practice session of the Australian Grand Prix saw McLaren's Oscar Piastri end Friday on top with a time of 1m 19.729s, 0.214s clear of Mercedes' Kimi Antonelli. The session was marked by several perilous moments, including lock-ups and a minor collision between George Russell and Arvid Lindblad in the pit lane.

FP2 Highlights from Australian GP

Ferrari's Edge in Race Starts?

The new 2026 F1 regulations introduce a revised 'pre-start' procedure, which could potentially give Ferrari an edge at the start of the race. Charles Leclerc noted that Ferrari might find it easier to reach the 'optimal window for the start' compared to other teams.

George Russell, who secured pole position, expressed concerns about the complexity of the new power units and the challenges they pose, even in pit stops.

Charles Leclerc Ferrari

The Australian Grand Prix will take place on Sunday, with Mercedes starting from the front row. The race is set to be intriguing due to the new regulations and the potential for varied strategies.

Sources: https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/highlights-relive-fp2-from-australia-as-piastri-goes-quickest.25V5XA8GOqtJDNgNj3rxHY https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12433/13516420/australian-gp-new-f1-race-starts-add-to-2026-opener-intrigue-as-charles-leclerc-sees-possible-ferrari-edge-over-mercedes