Australian Grand Prix: FINAL grid positions after all driver penalties

Double world champion Max Verstappen claimed pole on Saturday for the Australian Grand Prix ahead of Mercedes’ George Russell.

The 2023 Formula One season is well under way with 10 (of 22) races now in the record books following the most recent British Grand Prix. Photo: Twitter @redbullracing

Double world champion Max Verstappen claimed pole on Saturday for the Australian Grand Prix ahead of Mercedes’ George Russell, but his Red Bull team-mate Sergio Perez had a torrid time and will start last.

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In overcast and cool conditions, Lewis Hamilton in the other Mercedes was third ahead of Aston Martin’s Fernando Alonso in a tight session that went to the wire.

Last year’s winner Charles Leclerc came seventh in the Ferrari, with his team-mate Carlos Sainz fifth.

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Lance Stroll in the other Aston Martin will start sixth ahead of Leclerc with Williams’ Alexander Albon a shock eighth.

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Alpine’s Pierre Gasly was ninth with Nico Hulkenberg in a Haas rounding out the top 10.

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The race will start at 07:00 (SA time).