The Australian Grand Prix kicks off another exciting season of Formula 1, bringing high-speed drama to Melbourne’s iconic street circuit. If you’re wondering how to watch the 2026 Australian Grand Prix live on TV or online, here’s everything you need to know — including streaming options, TV channels, and time zone details.
2026 Australian Grand Prix Race Details
- Race: Australian Grand Prix
- Location: Albert Park Circuit
- City: Melbourne, Australia
- Race Weekend: March 6–8, 2026
- Race Day: Sunday, March 8, 2026
The Albert Park Circuit is a fast, semi-street track known for tight corners, high-speed sections, and unpredictable early-season weather.
How to Watch the Australian Grand Prix in the United States
Fans in the U.S. have multiple ways to watch every session live, including practice, qualifying, and the Grand Prix itself.
TV Broadcast
- ESPN – Live race coverage
- ESPN2 or ESPNews may carry practice and qualifying
Streaming Options
- F1 TV (F1 TV Pro) – Full live coverage with onboard cameras, team radios, and live timing
- ESPN+ (with participating coverage)
- Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, Sling TV (with ESPN included)
Because Melbourne is ahead of U.S. time zones, the race typically airs late Saturday night (ET) or very early Sunday morning.
How to Watch in the United Kingdom
Live TV Coverage
- Sky Sports (Sky Sports F1) – Full race weekend live
Streaming
- Sky Go (with subscription)
- NOW (Sky Sports pass options)
UK viewers usually watch the race early Sunday morning due to the time difference.
How to Watch in Australia
Home fans have both free-to-air and subscription options.
Free-to-Air
- Channel 10 (10 Play) – Live race broadcast
Subscription TV
- Fox Sports – Full weekend coverage including practice and qualifying
Streaming
- Foxtel Go / Foxtel Now
- F1 TV (depending on subscription tier)
Australian viewers can watch the race live during Sunday afternoon local time.
International Viewing Options
For fans outside the U.S., UK, or Australia:
- F1 TV Pro (available in many countries)
- Local sports networks that carry Formula 1 broadcast rights
Visit your country’s official Formula 1 broadcaster listing to confirm availability.
What Time Does the Australian Grand Prix Start?
Because the race takes place in Melbourne (AEDT), start times vary worldwide:
| Location | Approximate Start Time |
|---|---|
| Melbourne | Sunday afternoon |
| U.S. Eastern Time | Late Saturday night |
| U.S. Pacific Time | Saturday evening |
| United Kingdom | Early Sunday morning |
Exact times are usually confirmed a few weeks before race weekend.
Why the Australian Grand Prix Is Must-Watch
The Australian Grand Prix traditionally opens the Formula 1 season, meaning:
- New car debuts
- First look at championship contenders
- Early-season surprises
- Dramatic strategy battles
With Albert Park’s fast straights and technical sections, it often delivers thrilling wheel-to-wheel racing.
Final Thoughts: Best Way to Watch
If you’re in the U.S., ESPN or F1 TV Pro provides the most comprehensive coverage. UK fans should tune into Sky Sports F1, while Australian viewers can choose between Channel 10 or Fox Sports for full weekend access.