Formula 1, Sportrik Media - Max Verstappen suffered a shock crash during qualifying for the 2026 Australian Grand Prix at Albert Park Circuit, forcing the four-time world champion out of the session in Q1.
The incident occurred just past the midway point of the opening qualifying segment. The Red Bull Racing driver had yet to set a representative lap time when he began his first flying attempt.
Approaching Turn 1 at the end of the start-finish straight, Verstappen lost control of the RB22 under braking. The rear axle suddenly locked, sending the car into a spin before it slid across the gravel trap.
The car ultimately struck the barrier at Turn 1, causing immediate damage and triggering a red flag while marshals recovered the stricken vehicle.
Over team radio, Verstappen indicated that the incident was caused by a sudden rear lock-up during braking.
“The car just locked on the rear axles,” Verstappen said.
Because the crash occurred before he was able to register a lap time in Q1, Verstappen will start Sunday’s race from the back of the grid at the season-opening round in Melbourne.
The accident represents a difficult start to the 2026 campaign for both Verstappen and Red Bull, who had already encountered several challenges during the practice sessions earlier in the weekend.
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