F1 Australian Grand Prix LIVE RESULTS: Verstappen leads chaotic race with four cars out as Hamilton runs second – latest

THE Lewis Hamilton-Ferrari era begins in Melbourne as the greatest show in motorsport returns for another season.

Hamilton, 40, made the switch from Mercedes to the Scuderia official over the off-season and will make his debut for the Italian team as he chases a record-breaking eighth world championship.

The race start was DELAYED after rookie Isack Hadjar crashed out during the formation lap before bursting into tears as he was consoled by Hamilton's dad.

Fellow rookie Jack Doohan then crashed out on the first lap after a huge spin before last year's race winner, Carlos Sainz, crashed under the safety car.

Lando Norris took the chequered flag ahead of Max Verstappen after going off the track in a thrilling season opener.

Ferrari suffered a strategy disaster to leave Lewis Hamilton down in P10.

• Race time: 4am GMT
• TV channel: Sky Sports F1
• Live stream: NOW/Sky Sports app
• Grid: Norris, Piastri, Verstappen, Russell, Tsunoda, Albon, Leclerc, Hamilton, Gasly, Sainz, Hadjar, Alonso, Stroll, Doohan, Bortoleto, Antonelli, Hulkenberg, Lawson, Ocon, Bearman.

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