Australian Grand Prix 2023 - Race Schedule and Countdown

Max Verstappen reclaimed the championship lead with a dominant victory at the Australian Grand Prix, converting pole position into his second win of the season at Albert Park. The Dutchman controlled the race from start to finish, benefiting from a chaotic opening sequence that saw multiple incidents shake up the order.

The race began dramatically when multiple cars collided at Turn 3 on the opening lap, triggering a red flag stoppage. Alex Albon crashed heavily into the barriers, while Alpine's Pierre Gasly also retired from the incident. When racing resumed, Verstappen pulled away from the field while Lewis Hamilton delivered Mercedes' first podium of the season with a solid drive to second place, showing promising signs of the Silver Arrows' development direction. Fernando Alonso secured his third consecutive podium for Aston Martin, maintaining his remarkable consistency at the start of the season.

Sergio Perez set the fastest lap but could only manage fifth after a difficult race that included contact with Fernando Alonso, dropping crucial points to his teammate in the championship battle. George Russell finished fourth for Mercedes, securing a double points finish for the team. The race marked Red Bull's return to winning ways after Perez's Jeddah victory, with Verstappen reasserting his authority in the title fight.