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EXThe 2026 Formula 1 season has started with a huge statement from Mercedes. George Russell secured pole position at the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne, putting his car at the very front of the grid and leading a dominant Mercedes 1–2 performance at Albert Park.
What surprised fans even more was the gap. The Mercedes pace looked incredibly strong in the very first qualifying session of the new era, with the next non-Mercedes car over 0.8 seconds slower — a massive difference in modern Formula 1 qualifying.
This result is especially interesting because 2026 introduces major technical changes. New power units, increased electrical energy deployment, and the removal of the MGU-H are reshaping how the cars perform. Teams are still adapting to these new regulations, but Mercedes may have already found a powerful early advantage.
If this pace continues, the start of the 2026 season could mark a very strong comeback for the Silver Arrows.
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