Not even twenty laps have been driven during the opening race in Melbourne, but the fifth retirement is now a fact. Valtteri Bottas suddenly came to a standstill just before the entrance to the pit lane, due to a problem with the brand-new car of the American team. It is not the dream debut for Cadillac, which is appearing in Formula 1 for the first time this year.
Read more Results Australian GP 2026
Valtteri Bottas thus caused the second Virtual Safety Car of the race upon his return to Formula 1. Fernando Alonso and Nico Hülkenberg were also both unable to finish their race in Melbourne. Watch the Finn’s moment here:
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LAP 19/58
🟡 VIRTUAL SAFETY CAR 🟡
Valtteri Bottas retires from the race, pulling over on the inside of the final corner! 😳#F1 #AusGP pic.twitter.com/Eb6As2VvrZ
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— Formula 1 (@F1) March 8, 2026
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