Leclerc Leads as Verstappen Struggles in F1 Season Opener

Ferrari sets the pace on the first day of practice in Melbourne, while Red Bull faces early challenges and a crash sidelines Haas rookie Bearman.

Charles Leclerc recorded the fastest time in Friday's practice sessions for Ferrari, with McLaren drivers Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris close behind.
Defending champion Max Verstappen struggled with grip issues, finishing seventh in the second session and expressing concerns about Red Bull's performance.
Haas rookie Oliver Bearman crashed during the first session, causing significant damage to his car and missing the second session, though he was uninjured.
Lewis Hamilton, now driving for Ferrari, placed fifth in the second session, with team principal Frederic Vasseur expressing confidence in his future performance.
Surprises included strong showings from Williams' Carlos Sainz in the first session and Racing Bulls' Yuki Tsunoda and Isack Hadjar in the second session.