The first free practice session for the Australian Grand Prix took place at the Albert Park circuit in Melbourne. Charles Leclerc of Ferrari set the fastest lap time of 1:20.267. His teammate, Lewis Hamilton, finished second, just 0.4 seconds behind. Max Verstappen of Red Bull secured the third position. However, the session was marred by numerous technical issues. Reigning world champion Lando Norris was only able to complete seven laps due to a gearbox problem, leaving him in 19th place. His McLaren teammate, Oscar Piastri, returning to his home country, also suffered a power failure three minutes into the session. He later returned to the pits, continuing to report problems with his car. Serious difficulties also affected other drivers. With ten minutes remaining, Alexander Albon's (Williams) car suddenly died. Fernando Alonso (Aston Martin) couldn't even make it onto the track due to a power unit issue, while his teammate Lance Stroll only managed three laps for a similar reason. Argentine Franco Colapinto (Alpine) spun into the gravel at the third corner, and Mexican Sergio Perez (Cadillac) spun at the fourth corner late in the session due to engine braking failure, though he avoided hitting the wall. The best-performing Spanish driver was Carlos Sainz (Williams), who claimed the 12th-fastest time. The second free practice session will be held today at 16:00 local time (05:00 GMT).
