Australian Grand Prix: Oscar Piastri crashes McLaren on way to grid
Home favourite Oscar Piastri has suffered a disastrous start to the Australian Grand Prix after crashing his McLaren while making his way to the starting grid.
The Melbourne-born driver lost control of his car during the reconnaissance laps shortly before the race was scheduled to begin.
It is a major blow for the 23-year-old, who had arrived at Albert Park hoping to secure a podium finish in front of a passionate home crowd.
Pre-race drama at Albert Park
The incident occurred on a damp track as drivers tested conditions before forming up on the grid.
Television footage showed the McLaren slid off the circuit and sustained damage to the front of the car.
Piastri was able to communicate with his team over the radio immediately following the impact.
Mechanics face race against time
The car has been returned to the garage where McLaren mechanics are frantically assessing the extent of the damage.
Under Formula 1 regulations, the team must repair the vehicle quickly if the Australian is to take any part in the grand prix.
If the car cannot be fixed in time for the formation lap, Piastri may be forced to start from the pit lane or withdraw completely.
