HIGHLIGHTS: Relive the exhilarating Australian Grand Prix action as Norris takes a remarkable victory while rookies struggle

Lando Norris clung on in a chaotic, incident-packed race ahead of Max Verstappen and George Russell as constantly changing track conditions made for a thrilling season opener in Melbourne.

Starting the day on a damp track, Norris held on to the lead while Verstappen got the better of Oscar Piastri, but a late spell of intense heavy rain cast doubt on Norris’ victory hopes. An impressive drive and effective team strategy under immense pressure helped secure the McLaren driver his fifth career win.

READ MORE: Norris beats Verstappen to victory in dramatic Australian GP opener amid late-race chaos

McLaren appeared firmly on course to bag a mighty points haul for the majority of the race with home hero Piastri set for a podium, but he skidded onto the grass and took too long to return to the track to ultimately finish just inside the points in P9.

The race saw three Safety Car periods as the rookies endured a tricky debut, with Isack Hadjar, Jack Doohan, Liam Lawson and Gabriel Bortoleto all failing to finish the race through a myriad of crashes. Even the more experienced drivers in Carlos Sainz and Fernando Alonso were caught out by the slippery surface, resulting in six DNFs.

Behind Norris and Verstappen, the Mercedes duo of Russell and young talent Kimi Antonelli brought home a brilliant points haul as they crossed the line in third and fourth, with Alex Albon fifth for Williams. The two Ferraris found themselves at the tail end of the top 10 after changing onto intermediate tyres too late, finishing behind Lance Stroll and Nico Hulkenberg.

Watch the highlights from the Australian Grand Prix by hitting go on the video player above.