Formula 1 2026: why this new season could change everything?

Motorsport fans have been counting down the days. At last, Formula 1 is back this Sunday, with sweeping new technical regulations that could completely reshuffle the grid.

Three months after the cars were wheeled into the paddock for the last time in Abu Dhabi — where Lando Norris claimed his maiden world title — the Formula 1 2026 season promises to be packed with drama, with a fiercely determined Max Verstappen out for revenge.

While Belgian fans are already eyeing the weekend of 17, 18 and 19 July for the Belgian Grand Prix at the iconic Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps, it all starts in Australia with the opening round in Melbourne.

Golden Vegas Sport, your go-to sport betting site for betting on Formula 1, breaks down everything you need to know about the drivers to watch and the biggest storylines heading into 2026.

Verstappen and Norris ready to set Melbourne alight

Those who contend for victory at this opening Grand Prix will be the very same names fighting for the championship ten months from now. Under the new technical regulations, McLaren have lost the edge that carried them through three quarters of last season — despite some nervy moments along the way, most notably in Qatar.

"I may never get the chance to be champion again, but I have been one. And nobody can take that away from me," said Norris, seemingly trying to shake off the weight of expectation. "For me, George Russell on Mercedes is the favourite."

The Red Bulls of Max Verstappen and rookie Isack Hadjar see things very differently. "I am a competitor and like every competitor, I want to win. Only first place matters."

Can the young Frenchman make an immediate impact in his first race with the Austrian outfit, just as he did at Zandvoort when he claimed his first podium in the sport? That would come as a surprise to everyone — including every bookmaker in Belgium.

*Odds are subject to change. Event ends: 8 March at 05:00.

Which car will dominate the season?

It is the question on every motorsport fan's lips — whether in WRC, MotoGP, or Formula 1. Which constructor will emerge as the force to beat this year? In Formula 1 2026, that is genuinely anyone's guess. With a major shift towards greater electrical energy deployment and simplified power units, every team is effectively starting from scratch.

Energy management will be absolutely critical. You could already spot curious scenes during testing: drivers lifting off the throttle mid-straight before a sharp braking zone, purely to recover energy and conserve fuel.

Friday's opening practice sessions at Melbourne gave the first real clues. Ferrari, who were helpless at their home race in Monza last year, have shown renewed pace. Charles Leclerc posted the fastest time in the first session, a strong signal for the Scuderia.

Oscar Piastri was quickest in the second session. But which car will set the fastest lap when it truly counts on Sunday? If you are sports bet online and considering your options, Norris may have given you the tip of the day: the Mercedes look like the ones to beat.

*Odds are subject to change. Event ends: 8 March at 05:00.

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