2018 Formula One Australian Grand Prix at Albert Park

5:09pm

Five cars OUT and Haas to be probed

Here's what they're saying about the circumstances which led to Romain Grosjean's withdrawal: "Pit lane incident involving car 8 (Gro) will be investigated after the race - car released in an unsafe condition."

5:03pm

5:00pm

The 'Virtual Safety Car' is now in operation on Lap 26, fast approaching the halfway mark of this year's race. With two Haas cars already out, this is currently being called a 'Major Incident'

4:58pm

How it all began ....

Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton of Britain leads the field at the start.

4:53pm

4:52pm

More woes for Haas

Now the other driver, Romain Grosjean, is in trouble ... also after visiting the pits

4:51pm

Plenty of feeling for Kev out there ...

4:49pm

Early drama

Kevin Magnussen just pitted but the Dane is now off the track. Standby for more info on why his Haas car is playing up .... this means, of course, than Dan Ricciardo moves up another spot to fifth overall.

4:46pm

We're seeing the first pit stops of this year's race. Sebastian Vettel currently leads but that's only because of the vagaries of which drivers take a break and when.

4:41pm

The other withdrawal

It wouldn't be an Australian Grand Prix without a couple of casualties ...