Formula 1, Sportrik Media - Kimi Antonelli suffered a major crash during the third practice session of the 2026 Australian Grand Prix at Albert Park Circuit, triggering the second red flag of a disrupted FP3.
The Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team driver lost control while exiting Turn 1. Antonelli ran wide onto the exit kerb before the car snapped toward the outside barrier at Turn 2, resulting in a heavy impact.
Due to the severity of the collision, the medical car was immediately deployed. Initial data indicated the impact exceeded 25G, highlighting the significant force involved in the crash.
Despite the heavy contact, Antonelli was able to exit the damaged W17 on his own and walk back toward the pit lane, suggesting he avoided serious injury.
Following the incident, race control closed the pit lane while marshals recovered the car and cleared debris from the track. The session is expected to resume once the circuit is deemed safe.
At the time of the accident, Antonelli was fourth on the timing sheets. He trailed Charles Leclerc, Oscar Piastri, and Lewis Hamilton.
However, the crash raises uncertainty over whether Mercedes will have enough time to repair the car ahead of qualifying. The team is likely to face extensive rebuild work on the W17 before the grid-deciding session later in Melbourne.
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