Australian GP: Max Verstappen crashes out of qualifying in Q1 shock

Max Verstappen has crashed out of qualifying for the Australian Grand Prix in a shock start to the new Formula 1 season.

The four-time world champion spun his Red Bull at Turn 1 midway through the opening session in Melbourne.

Verstappen bounced across the gravel trap before hitting the wall, ending his participation in Q1.

It means the Dutchman will start from the back of the grid for Sunday’s race.

‘Fantastic’ frustration for champion

Verstappen emerged from the cockpit unhurt but was immediately vocal about technical issues over the team radio.

The incident occurred as he applied the brakes, causing the car to snap unexpectedly.

“The car just f***ing locked the rear axles. Fantastic.”

Max Verstappen via team radio

Struggles with new era

This dramatic exit marks a turbulent beginning to Formula 1’s latest technical era.

The Red Bull driver has already been a vocal critic of the sport’s new cars.

Drivers are facing a complicated new driving style due to the increased emphasis on battery management within the revised hybrid engines.