The opening of the 2026 Formula 1 season in Melbourne will have as one of its main highlights the presence of Lewis Hamilton (Ferrari) in the first FIA (International Automobile Federation) press conference of the year. The seven-time world champion is part of the second group of drivers summoned for Thursday (5), alongside home driver Oscar Piastri (McLaren) and Racing Bulls rookie Arvid Lindblad.
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In total, there will be four formal sessions: the drivers’ press conference on Thursday, the team principals’ on Friday, and two others for the top three finishers, held on Saturday and Sunday.
Before Hamilton’s participation, the first group of drivers to speak to the press will consist of George Russell (Mercedes), Nico Hulkenberg (Audi), and the returning Valtteri Bottas (Cadillac). Meanwhile, the team principals’ press conference is scheduled to take place between FP1 and FP2 on Friday. Participating in the first session will be Adrian Newey (Aston Martin), Toto Wolff (Mercedes), and Graeme Lowdon (Cadillac).
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The Australian GP begins with the first free practice at 22h30 on Thursday, Brasília time. F1MANIA.NET follows the entire event in real time.
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