MUST-SEE: Home hero Piastri dramatically crashes out before Australian GP gets under way

Huge drama unfolded during the build-up to the Australian Grand Prix as Oscar Piastri crashed on his way to the grid – ending his home race before it had even started.

Piastri was navigating the usual pre-race reconnaissance laps when he lost control of his McLaren at the exit of Turn 4, sending him into the concrete wall lining the track.

With significant car damage sustained, Piastri had no option but to climb out and head back to the paddock, where he will have to watch Sunday afternoon’s action from the sidelines.

Hit go on the video player above to watch the incident as it happened.