F1 | 2026 Chinese F1 Grand Prix Result, Lap by Lap Summary and Ratings

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March 16, 2026

2025 Abu Dhabi F1 Grand Prix Result Race Summary Featured Image

A new season, new cars, new technology, new dominant drivers, and some same old disappointments. Plus plenty of action in between. Talking of action, our 2026 Chinese F1 Grand Prix Result Summary will hopefully do the first Grand Prix weekend of the season justice.

This 2026 Chinese Grand Prix Result, Laps that Matter summary, Review & Ratings gives you just enough to catch up with. With just a hint of cynicism, bias, opinion and colour. The perfect bite sized review for those who couldn’t be bothered, or don’t have enough time.

2026 Chinese F1 Grand Prix Result Race Summary

Didn’t see the race live? Don’t have time to watch the whole race? Here’s where we capture the laps where stuff happened. We write these live as we go, sort of like a minute by minute for the football, but marginally more interesting.

Setting the scene – SPRINT RACE

The first Sprint Race of produced a similar result as expected in the race with George Russell winning, but his team mate Kimi Antonelli fluffed the start again and dropped well back behind Ferraris and McLarens. Antonelli was also involved in a dust up with Isack Hadjar for which he received a 10 second penalty. Antonelli was then involved in the race’s most controversial moment as he fell off the track on a Safety Car restart at the final corner, allowing Oscar Piastri to go past, but Piastri was then penalised for overtaking before the start line, which although is the rule for normal restarts, was harsh on Piastri. He gave the place back to Antonelli a few laps later to avoid a penalty. A bit of early racing between George Russell and the Ferraris settled down, although among that was the Ferrari drivers racing each other hard, leading to an unhappy-ish Leclerc chatting about widths of Ferraris on Team Radio. The Safety Car caused by Nico Hulkenberg breaking down was a key with Ferrari not pitting straight away and blowing a chance to put more pressure on Russell.

SPRINT RACE FINISH – RUS LEC HAM NOR ANT PIA LAW BEA

Setting the scene – QUALIFYING

And ultimately, it’s all about Mercedes again, but for interest’s sake it is Kimi Antonelli taking pole and becoming the youngest ever driver to do so. George Russell did well to make it onto the front row, with his car in the pits for most of Q3 with an issue. He made it out just in time to do a lap good enough for second. Behind him the Ferrari’s look next best, and with a decent strategy could….pffft, we know that’s not going to happen. McLaren are getting the maximum they can, which isn’t as good as a Mercedes but they are faster than Red Bull, whose car Max Verstappen called undriveable.

GRID AFTER Q3 – ANT RUS HAM LEC PIA NOR GAS VER HAD BEA

Setting the scene – RACEDAY

Sensation as World Champion Lando Norris doesn’t make it out of the garage with electrical issues, and if that wasn’t enough misery for McLaren Oscar Piastri is pushed off the grid while the intro for the Chinese Grand Prix was playing. Not outright front runners, but contenders for podiums in the event of Ferrari strategy stuff up, so huge news. Less huge but notable is Alex Albon starting from the pit lane, and even as the grid is being shown on TV Audi’s Gabriel Bortoleto is being pushed off the grid and he is officially out. Alex Albon doesn’t make the race either. What a new era we have in Formula 1. Back to the good old days of the 1980’s where the cars would keep you guessing despite their pace. Good news for Pierre Gasly and Max Verstappen who now have a big gap in front on them to speed off, if they can. Who knows with this new technology….Although Pierre Gasly initially drove past his grid slot, but reversed back onto the right place.

Lap 1 – Pole sitter Kimi Antonelli makes a better start than the Sprint Race but not as good as Lewis Hamilton who sweeps around the outside of turn one to take the lead. Charles Leclerc threatens to steal second too over the next few corners but Antonelli keeps him behind. George Russell settles in fourth. Isack HAdjar and Oliver Bearman battle for 6th place, with Bearman leaving the track to stay in front, then Hadjar sweeping past a corner later, only to spin at the next corner where Bearman has to leave the track again to avoid the rotating Red Bull. Hadjar rejoins but told to pit before the lap ends. Two Racing Bulls battle Colapinto, which sounds like a recipe for disaster. Behind them is the incredible Fernando Alonso doing his thing and hauling the Aston Martin up to 10th. Max Verstappen makes a shocking start and is 13th at the end of the first lap. Sergio Perez apparently goes off early in the first lap too and not long into the Grand Prix find out that Valtteri Bottas is being investigated for it. His team mate Valtteri Bottas is up to 14th, which is ahead of Hulkenberg and Stroll. The McLarens are both eventually out as well.

ORDER – HAM ANT LEC RUS GAS COL LAW LIN OCO ALO

Lap 2 – The top four are circulating very close around the second lap, covered by a seconds and a half and already almost two seconds in front of fifth. It’s not long though before Kimi Antonelli breezes past the Ferrari down the back straight to take the lead. Meanwhile Oscar Piastri has jumped out of his car in the pits, safe in the knowledge that he has completed zero racing laps so far in 2026. Goerge Russell passes Charles Leclerc up the inside of the pit straight at the beginning of lap three.

ORDER – ANT HAM RUS LEC GAS COL LAW OCO LIN VER

Lap 4 – George Russell hits his power button down the straight to begin lap 4 and scorches Lewis Hamilton as he goes past to take second. It is a bit too easy some of this new technology.

Lap 7 – The race has settled down, which means it’s going to be pretty dull from here. We could usually rely on Lance Stroll to do something silly, but sadly his car isn’t fast enough. Although Franco Colapinto circulating in 6th place is kind of cool for him. At the front Kimi Antonelli is1.5 seconds clear of George Russell who is 2.2 seconds in front of the Ferraris which are less than a second apart.

ORDER – ANT RUS HAM LEC GAS COL OCO LAW LIN VER

Lap 8 – Max Verstappen announces via Team Radio that his tyres are dead, after just eight laps. He is on softs, so kind of his fault. And explains why he is struggling to get past the Racing Bulls ahead. The Racing Bulls themselves swap positions and back again into and out of the hairpin. For the record on strategy Colapinto, Ocon and Lindblad are on hard tyres. Verstappen pits at the end of Lap 9 behind Liam Lawson.

Lap 10 – What was that about Lance Stroll before? The broadcast goes from pit stops to a dead stop of Lance Stroll’s Aston Martin at turn five. Now we know the Aston Martin is unreliable, so will presume unfairly that Lance Stroll has done something silly until evidence suggests it’s definitely car failure. Whoever’s fault, the stoppage causes the Safety Car to be deployed, and how will this play out with tyre stops. Surely the Ferraris pit after messing up the Sprint Race.

SAFETY CAR DEPLOYED

Lap 11 – Mercedes pit their front running cars, Ferrari double stack as well. Russell stays ahead of the Ferraris. Colapinto, Ocon and Lindblad’s choice of hard tyre means they stay out and grab higher than usual positions – Colapinto (2nd), Ocon (3rd), Lindblad (6th). Those cars might be a nuisance to the faster cars behind, which is good.

ORDER – ANT COL OCO RUS HAM LIN LEC HUL GAS BEA

SAFETY CAR PERIOD ENDS

Lap 14 – Kimi Antonelli does a better job at the restart than yesterday’s Sprint Race and keeps his lead. Esteban Ocon does his best to steal second from Colapinto, but Colapinto does his best work to stay in front. Next position down changes hands as Lewis Hamilton takes fourth from George Russell. Lewis Hamilton double down on the overtaking and takes second from Ocon into the hairpin. At the beginning of lap 15 Charles Leclerc sweeps past George Russell.

Lap 15 – Lewis Hamilton makes light work of Colapinto to take second halfway around the lap. Before the lap is done Leclerc gets past Esteban Ocon. And not to be left out George Russell overtakes Ocon for fifth. Further back and there’s a decent battle brewing between Arvid Lindblad and Oliver Bearman.

ORDER – ANT HAM LEC COL RUS OCO LIN BEA HUL GAS

Lap 18 – With the top four clearing out of the midfield cars, it leaves two Alpines, Two Haas’ and one Max Verstappen to fight over the lower half of the points places. It’s good racing. This group is a full five second behind Russell. But this is a time for the Alpines and Haas cars to score some points with the McLarens away and Hadjar resetting to standard Red Bull number two driver mode.

Lap 20 – This midfield racing is really good, with attempts made and rebuked. And with Max Verstappen edging further to the front in 8th. Then 7th a lap or so later. Although, you have to wonder about the efficiency of all this racing, as leading car Colapinto is over ten seconds behind Russell now.

Lap 21 – The top four remain as they were, but George Russell appears to be a driver keen on a move and it right on Charles Leclerc. He in turn catches his team mate for a nice three car bunch racing for stuff. Ahead Kimi Antonelli has a comfortable lead of just over two seconds.

ORDER – ANT HAM LEC RUS BEA VER COL OCO HUL LAW

Lap 25 – Oooooh, and wow, the Ferraris are racing so close together and not sure how they don’t touch. Maybe it is professionalism. That aside Charles Leclerc passes Lewis Hamilton for second as part of that tense racing, and George Russell almost pinches his third place too, but doesn’t. For now.

Lap 26 – Lewis Hamilton passes Charles Leclerc for second into the hairpin on Lap 26, only for Leclerc to pass him into turn one on Lap 27. The Ferraris then race and swap positions around the 27th lap but Leclerc stays in front. All the racing hurts Hamilton as George Russell passes him for third into the hairpin. So much racing for just one lap. While this is all going on, Kimi Antonelli is seven seconds ahead.

Lap 28 – Arvid Lindblad has a spin, briefly blocks the track but recovers and continues in 14th.

Lap 29 – It took almost 30 laps, but it is now a Mercedes 1-2 as George Russell passes Charles Leclerc for second.

ORDER – ANT LEC RUS HAM BEA VER GAS COL HUL LAW

Lap 33 – Something spicy in the midfield as Esteban Ocon and Franco Colapinto collide. The Alpine driver had just come out of the pits as Esteban Ocon was travelling into turn one. Colapinto doesn’t see Ocon on the inside of turn two and they touch, spinning in unison like a pre-planned dance move. It looked graceful enough for ballet. Ocon goes right to the back of the field while Colapinto is at least ahead of the Cadillacs. Fernando Alonso has also just retired. Two thirds, or so, of the race is a decent test run.

Lap 36 – Lewis Hamilton is complaining about low power or power issues, but then all of a sudden is flying past Charles Leclerc. Maybe it was the ultimate bluff to the Leclerc side of Ferrari. Either way Hamilton takes third and keeps his team mate at bay to keep third for the time being. A lap later, the broadcast is riding with Charles Leclerc when he almost runs up the back of Hamilton’s car.

ORDER – ANT RUS HAM LEC BEA VER GAS LAW HAD SAI

Lap 39 – Charles Leclerc passes Lewis Hamilton into the hairpin, but Lewis Hamilton passes him back into turn one on Lap 40 and keeps third place. They continue to race hard, but fair. And true but fair as well.

Lap 41 – Kimi Antonelli is good a cracking job in front, has only conceded less than one second of lead to his more experienced team mate since we last looked, which was a while ago. For the record he is 7.1 seconds in front. No surprise the Mercedes is the fastest car, second placed Russell is almost 13 seconds behind.

Lap 46 – Red Bull over the radio, telling Max Verstappen to retire the car. He crawls round the 46th lap and retires from 6th place. Oliver Bearman may breathe a sigh of relief.

Lap 50 – Kimi Antonelli is in the zone now. He has extended the lead to almost ten seconds. What a drive from the youngster.

Lap 53 – Lucky Kimi Antonelli had an almost ten second lead…..He out brakes himself going into the hairpin at the end of the back straight. He only loses two seconds to George Russell in second.

Lap 54 – Lewis Hamilton is on track for his first Ferrari podium, leading his team mate by 3.6 seconds and looking comfortable enough.

FINAL LAP – Kimi cruises around the final lap and does a better job of the hairpin than some of his previous laps. He crosses the line as F1’s new youngest race winner. Not quite as excited or momentous, but probably close is Lewis Hamilton’s first podium for Ferrari. Good points for midfield teams with McLaren and Max Verstappen out.

FINAL ORDER (Across the line) – ANT RUS HAM LEC BEA GAS LAW HAD SAI COL

Here we go through the field and highlight the very best (Great) of the race, and the plodders, the over-ambitious, the out of luck, and simply hopeless (Grape).

These points get added to our Driver of the Season scores. 5 points for a great nomination, and -5 for the worst or grapest driver in the pack. Then it is +2 /-2 for honourable or dishonourable mentions.

THE GREAT-EST – KIMI ANTONELLI

Bit of a no-brainer this month. Kimi Antonelli became the youngest ever pole position winner, then goes on to win his first race, dominating in a way beyond his years, although young drivers like him rarely get the car he currently has. But he did it better than George Russell, which is no mean feat. Tears in the post-race interview shows what it means. Aside from blowing the Sprint Race start, it was a magic weekend for Kimi.

HONOURABLE MENTIONS

LEWIS HAMILTON – We have been pretty harsh on Lewis Hamilton in recent seasons here with our F1 reporting, and he has mostly deserved it with some ordinary performances. So his Chinese Grand Prix pace and razor sharp racing proves there’s still plenty of the old Lewis in there to give his second year of the Ferrari stint a real crack.

GEORGE RUSSELL – After almost missing Q3 in Qualifying, Russell did well to make the front row of the grid, and did well to finish second, looking racey enough at times.

OLVIER BEARMAN – Another magnificent effort from Bearman. Avoiding too much trouble early, then was in the upper midfield for the early part of the race, and when pitstops and strategy sorted themselves out he settled 5th and earned himself a big bad of points.

PIERRE GASLY – A very good weekend for the Alpine driver. Points and making Q3 is a decent effort in current F1.

CARLOS SAINZ – First points for 2026.

THE GRAPE-EST – McLAREN

Qualifying fifth and sixth was as good as they could do pace-wise, and as good as they could do in the race, as neither car started, both retiring from the pitlane.

DISHONOURABLE MENTIONS

OSCAR PIASTRI – Oscar Piastri gets an additional nomination for completing zero laps in two grands prix.

GABRIEL BORTOLETO & ALEX ALBON – Never got to start.

MAX VERSTAPPEN – Not particularly fast this weekend, only able to qualify 8th, dropped positions at the start and although climbed to 6th in the race, he made hard work of it, and never really looked up to speed. Then retired anyway.

ASTON MARTIN – Improvement at least by doing more laps, but it is still rubbish for the spend.

Was it a good race, loads of action, a tense ending, a surprise result or DNF, or just a big, fat, snooze-fest?

We rate the big race itself, so we know which races to go back and watch in the off season or one to simply remember the winner for the post season quiz nights.

PRE RACE ACTION (FP, QUAL, SPRINT, OFF TRACK etc) – 3 / 5

The Chinese GP isn’t usually one that is usually full of action, being a reasonably dull track and location, but the Sprint Race had enough action to slightly interesting, Qualifying saw a new record set for youngest pole sitter, and off track there was the announcement of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabia GPs going amiss due to Middle East conflict. Apparently pre-warned via social media by Antonelli.

ON TRACK ACTION (RACE) – 7 / 10

Lots of action down the field and throughout the race stages. After the usual chaos of the opening laps these days, there were plenty of battles to keep fans and well wishers entertained.

ANY SURPRISES? – 4 / 5

A Mercedes winning isn’t much of a surprise, but Kimi beating George to pole and the win is. Same with disappearing McLarens and other cars pre-race due to failures. Oliver Bearman running as high as fifth and Gasly sixth is also a surprise.

SEASON IMPORTANCE – 2 / 5

Won’t change the order up the front for the Championship, but does give Kimi a subtle nudge towards believing he can be a title nuisance to George Russell.

ENDING – 2 / 5

Kimi Antonelli out-braking himself was about the highlight, but it was quieter than earlier. Although, nice to enjoy Kimi winning his first race.

OVERALL RATING – 20 / 30

Some great racing, and a nice moment to see Kimi Antonelli win and break records for pole position and race win age.

2026 F1 Season Preview Gear

In case you haven’t got enough with the above. Here’s the best of 2026 in advance……

2026 F1 Season Bold Predictions
Captain Hindsight’s 2026 F1 Season Obvious Sensible Predictions
The F1 Donkey’s 2026 F1 Season Opinion and Season Predictions
2026 F1 Season Verdict by AI Grek Norman
2026 F1 Car Liveries Rated
2026 F1 Season Ratings & Season Results Predictions

PLUS
2026 Chinese Grand Prix Prix-view
F! Donkey’s Australian Grand Prix Bold Predictions

AND

The Gurgler’s 2025 Stats Review & Driver of the Season

EVERYDAY NEWS – The Elitist Facebook Group Continues

By

Andrew Pelechaty

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March 15, 2026

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A hardline Facebook podcast fan group has continued to push the limits of fan dedication.

The Ardal’s REAL Fans page has a reputation for testing – and alienating – its members with the admin’s strict policing of the podcast.

And now they’ve gone a step further.

With new celebrity interview episodes released every Monday afternoon, the Facebook admin team has starting posting an ‘Episode Reactions’ thread.

While that’s fine on the surface, it comes with strict rules.

EVERY SINGLE page member MUST post in this thread EVERY WEEK! NO exceptions. Forgetting or not having enough time to post (for whatever reason) is NO excuse!
Members have 24 hours (depending when the podcast is available) to listen to the episode IN FULL and post their views in the thread.
Absolutely NO negative comments will be tolerated! This is a positive and safe space. If you don’t like a guest one week (if so, what is wrong with you? All of Ardal’s guests are wonderful!), then find something positive to talk about.
Breaking ANY of the three rules will result in IMMEDIATE EXPULSION from the group! No warnings, no second chances! Goodbye and good riddance!

While the strict rules saw some members leave the group voluntarily, most members have complied with their thoughts on the episodes within the time frame.

Everyday News reporters reached to a former member of the page (who wished to remain anonymous), for their reactions.

“Oh, is that silly page still going? Mate, I scrapped my Facebook during the Christmas holidays, why would I care? I still like the pod, but I listen to it when I want to, and I skip episodes if I don’t like the celebrity,” they said. “Whoever runs that page is either desperate for a power trip or they have nothing else in their lives so they have to obsess over a podcast to feel useful. I enjoy the podcast, but it’s only a podcast!”

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NRL | One Minute Match Reports – 2026 NRL Round 2 Results & Stats

By

Max Layne

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March 13, 2026

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2026 NRL Round 1 Las Vegas Results Featured Image

Missed all the rugby league results this weekend because you were running onto the field against the rules at the Sydney Football Stadium? Forgot to set the alarm for one or all of the matches this weekend? No, of course you didn’t. But if you genuinely did, or you need/want more or less, The Gurgler has you covered for the with our 2026 NRL Round 2 Results & Stats – One Minute Match Reports.

Our popular One Minute Match Reviews offers up just enough facts and figures and opinion to make it through the awkward chats the next morning on public transport, or something to talk about when ringing into the local ABC breakfast show of your choice. Or just enough level of interest so you don’t have to make eye contact with that jerk in the office you really don’t want to have to be nice to.

Regardless of how you spend your time, the One Minute Match Report has you just about covered.

2026 NRL Round 2 Results & Stats

Brisbane 32 Parramatta 40

Match Thoughts

Like Jerry Springer, but for rugby league.

Fingers are hovering above panic buttons in Brisbane as the Broncos start the season 0-2, and some argue were almost as disappointing as the previous week when they lost without scoring.

When the Broncos led 20-6 after 25 minutes, it looked like Parramatta were in for as long a night as they endured in Melbourne in Round One. But the Eels went on a try scoring spree scoring three before the break and one after it – two of them to Isaiah Iongi – to be leading 26-20.

That seemed to wake up the Broncos for a while and they did re-take the lead and were still in front 32-28 with 18 minutes to go, and you thought they might just click and go on to win the game. But Sean Russell sneaked a try in the corner to give the Eels the lead again, and future Broncos Jonah Pezet sealed the win with a try of his own after plenty of try assists.

The Broncos looked disinterested at times, and much will be said about Reece Walsh not having one of his better nights, and he sure didn’t, but very few Broncos did. The Broncos are occasionally thought of as being quite arrogant, and performances like the first two weeks wouldn’t help that, and it doesn’t get easier next week as they have to face the Storm in Melbourne, a place they don’t do well at, and may not have Adam Reynolds available because of injury. And they aren’t flush with young back ups until next season.

PLAYER OF THE MATCH – Jonah Pezet – silver lining for the Broncos is he’s theirs next season.

One Minute Big Stats Summary

Most of the stats you need, and just a few you want.

The Points of Interest

Parramatta have won this fixture at Suncorp Stadium for the last two seasons now.
Parramatta have won five of the last six games v Brisbane at Suncorp Stadium. Parramatta have scored at least 22 points in each game of that run.
Parramatta have won their last five games on a Friday, with four of the five games being away,

Warriors 40 Raiders 6

Match Thoughts

Like Jerry Springer, but for rugby league.

Time to get the Wah-ty started. Terrible puns aside, what a start to the season for the Warriors. Brushing aside one of the Premiership favourites in Round One, then blowing away the 2025 Minor Premiers in Round 2. They are looking great.

In the pouring rain in Auckland it was a tight first half with the Warriors and Canberra all square at 6-6 at the break. Who could have guessed the scoreline at the end of the game from there. Although, you could easily guess that Leka Halasima would score a try given his recent form, or maybe two as he did in the second half.

Second half was all Wahs as they overpowered Canberra outscoring them 34-0 in an awesome display.

Whilst Wahs fans, and the many well wishers won’t be buying NRL Grand Fina Tickets, maybe they are and maybe they should, but they should be excited about where the Warriors can get to in 2026. Maybe even a new Minor Premier? And more. Not the end of the world for Raiders fans, who will live to fight on for a overdue Premiership, but a timely reminder to the other teams going to visit the Wahs in Auckland this season.

One Minute Big Stats Summary

Most of the stats you need, and just a few you want.

The Points of Interest

Warriors now have twice the wins over the Raiders at home as they lead the H2H v Canberra at Mt Smart Stadium by 14-7.
The Wahs win broke a run of three wins for Canberra over them, and they also stopped some good runs of form on a Friday for Canberra.
It was the Warriors’ first back to back home game wins at Mt Smart since Round 7 last year.

Roosters 26 South Sydney 18

Match Thoughts

Like Jerry Springer, but for rugby league.

What a moment, Alex Johnston breaking the all-time try scoring and despite warning for months, the fans did run onto the field to enjoy the moment. And so they should, it made the moment so much better. So good luck to the authorities trying to fine everyone. Interesting the first fan on the scene was wearing a Roosters jersey, which despite the rivalry shows the gravity of the achievement. The 15 minute delay to soak it all up was worth, and Antohny Albanese hasn’t been so popular for a long time.

Back to the game and Souths wasted a bunch of territory and ball with a failure to score and the Roosters put on two tries, one a historic moment for Daly Cherry-Evans for his first Roosters try, and the other standard good work from Daniel Tupou.

Either side of the half time break was about Alex Johnston, equaling the record before, and breaking the record one minute after half time, with Latrell Mitchell throwing the final pass for both. The record break saw Johnston sail 30 metres down the sideline to score, but legends over time will probably call it 50 metres and more.

One a night where the greatest try coring winger was celebrated, it was apt that Marky Mark from the Roosters edged the Roosters back ahead with a try that few others would have scored without being smashed into touch.

Souths had their chances after that try but some very simple errors from their very best players cost them, and perhaps it was the distraction of the record breaking try that did it. The Roosters edged further ahead to 20-12 with a penalty goal not long after Cody Walker made an unforced error. Despite a few more errors Souths then benefitted from a Roosters error when Campbell Graham scored from a Jack Wighton grubber within the first set, and with Latrell at his goal kicking best it was 20-18 with nine minutes to go.

Souths had their chances but were unable to break through and given Souths the result to go with the occasion. A shame they gave away their last good chance with a silly escort penalty, which gave the Roosters to seal the game with a try from a DCE grubber in the final minute. The Roosters take the two points but the game will still belong to Alex Johnston.

The game itself was a gripping contest, with two great rivals going at each other, bit of niggle, and not as many penalties or points as week one. NRL take notice, you don’t need basketball scoreline for games to be great. Just stars doing their thing, and the rules and officials letting them do it.

A note for following Souths games though, as soon as Cody Walker gets a bit angry, a bit pushy, almost punchy, Souths never win.

One Minute Big Stats Summary

Most of the stats you need, and just a few you want.

The Points of Interest

The Roosters are 11/11 against South Sydney at the Sydney Football Stadium on a Friday in the NRL era
Roosters have won also six of the last seven games v South Sydney anywhere. Roosters have won six of the last seven games v South Sydney at the Sydney Football Stadium on any day, including the last three.
Roosters have won 13 of their last 14 at the Sydney Football Stadium on a Friday.

Wests Tigers 44 North Queensland 16

Match Thoughts

Like Jerry Springer, but for rugby league.

What a glorious sight to see a Saturday afternoon game at a packed suburban ground, rugby league bosses should take note in their seemingly never-ending to quest to become NFL lite or beat the AFL at everything. Well, glorious for anyone not supporting the North Queensland Cowboys.

For a second match in a row they were well beaten by a team that finished in the bottom half in 2025, and there’s no hint from them so far that their end position will be anything other than bottom half. Unless they sack Too Payten, which has been hinted at for years now, and may end up being a mercy for him.

But who can begrudge the Tigers a little success after what seems like a decade of taunts over finishing either 9^th place or last. They looked good throughout with a suggestion that there’s plenty more to come too, this being only their first game of the season. The party atmosphere at Leichhardt may suggest the Tigers fans can smell top eight in 2026, following a similar path to the Bulldogs after recent seasons of doldrums.

It helps the Tigers have brought in winners from Penrith, but recruitment from elsewhere looks better by the week like Kai Pearce-Paul and their faith in the younger players coming through might see rewards this season too.

The Cowboys again looked out of sorts, especially in the first half, the try to Adam Doueihi captures this, as there is no way a halfback (as big as he is for a halfback) should power his way to the line under the posts that early in a game. Perhaps he was driven by the noise of the home fans. The Tigers led 28-2 at half time scoring five tries to nil. North Queensland did threaten a comeback of sorts, getting as close as 34-16 in the 61^st minute, but that was as close as they would get with the Tigers signing off with two more tries for a great first-up win.

The Points of Interest

Wests Tigers have won their last four games at Leichhardt on a Saturday v Qld teams.
The last five games between these sides at Leichhardt average just under 70 points.
The Tigers’ win broke a run of five straight losses v North Queensland.

St George Illawarra 20 Melbourne 46

Match Thoughts

Like Jerry Springer, but for rugby league.

As some of us acknowledge the foolishness of tipping St George Illawarra, they at least weren’t total outclassed and gave the Storm a decent contest for a long time at WIN Stadium on Saturday, as they were in Las Vegas past the 80^th minute mark. The Dragons just lack a little bit of quality to get past the better sides in these types of contests, which won’t save them from a bottom half finish but will save the coach from losing his coach. That and the constant and consistent backup from Fox League friends. No matter what they say Kyle Flanagan will never deliver them a title.

Worries over off season departures at Melbourne can be close to put aside now, especially with Fa’alogo’s form at fullback, and as evert the Storm production line of forwards to cover the losses of Eli Katoa for the season and big Nelson forever. The Storm will have to use that production line expertise on their backline when some of their players head to Perth on a Bear Hunt, and talk of Will Warbrick moving to the Warriors, but you can be pretty sure that Melbourne will cover it, and continue to shine.

The half time score was 18-14 but that was only after a run of penalties just before half time saw Melbourne score in the dying seconds of the half to snatch the lead. Up until then and into the second half the Dragons were more than holding their own, retaking the lead in the 52^nd minute when Val Holmes converted his own try. But whether that try or an icy stare from Craig Bellamy in the coaches box lit a fire for the Storm but they turned it on, scoring 28 points in the last 18 minutes starting with a Fa’alogo try in the 62^nd minute.

Melbourne are 2/2 having scored 98 points in the first two matches as the Strom machine rolls on again for another season.

The Points of Interest

Melbourne have won the last four games v St George Illawarra at Win Stadium.
Melbourne have won ten of their last 12 games v Sydney teams away.
Melbourne have won five games in a row away on a Saturday.

Penrith 26 Cronulla 6

Match Thoughts

Like Jerry Springer, but for rugby league.

The Sharks sure don’t like playing the Panthers. Penrith have won six in a row v Cronulla and ten of the last 11 games. They have scored zero three times in that run, and looked capable of a fourth blot in Bathurst on Saturday night.

Penrith again did what Penrith do best, crush the spirit of opposition and their will to win. It may sound not very nice, but it has been extremely effective in winning many premierships in a row. They have conceded just six points against two side that made the second last week of the finals last season.

It’s all no nonsense too, but does help to have a halfback like Nathan Cleary running the show.

The Sharks are equally no nonsense, but their form against the very top sides in games that matter is a concern. Not that the game in Bathurst was life defining, but it was a preview into the future when the Sharks make the finals and get knocked out again.

One final thought is for more games in country locations. The NRL get plenty of money out of Origin, Las Vegas and Magic Round, so why make a Country Round or make all 17 teams go to the bush once a season.

The Points of Interest

Penrith are W7 L5 at Bathurst. That improves to W7 L4 on a Saturday.
The last four games at Bathurst have been 32 points or less.
Penrith have won six in a row v Cronulla and ten of the last 11 games. Cronulla have scored zero three times in that run. And did score six points only in another two games in that run.

Manly 16 Newcastle 36

Match Thoughts

Like Jerry Springer, but for rugby league.

It’s easy to bash Manly instead of praising Newcastle, so we will.

It was probably the most underwhelming performance of the weekend, at least as bad as the Cowboys looked against the Wests Tigers. But at least the Cowboys have an excuse. They had to go to Las Vegas, and their away trip is 1,684km each way. Doesn’t forgive the awfulness, but just gives a reasonable excuse. Or maybe it’s the constant coach bashing and talk of exits.

But Manly were at home for the second weekend in a row, so like Oscar Piastri in the F1 they haven’t had to move at all this season yet. So to not only lose, but to be down 30-10 at half time, and that’s with their two million players out, and the Knights were already down another starting half, it’s pretty bad going.

Manly had a short enough deficit (30-16 after 45 minutes) and loads of time to turn it around, but they didn’t. Newcastle for a second game in a row just got the job done.

A word for Sandon Smith, who was initially named on the bench in Las Vegas until Fletcher Sharpe got injured, he has certainly taken his opportunity over the first two games, and the injuries to Kalyn Ponga and Dylan Brown might be a great opportunity to seal a spot for the season.

And good on Newcastle turning around an ordinary 2026 and providing an early season surprise.

The Points of Interest

Newcastle broke a run of eight losses away on a Sunday with victory over Manly.
It’s the first time since 2021 that Manly have lost their first two home games of the season.
It was just the third loss at home to Newcastle from the last 18 matches.

Dolphins 18 Gold Coast 14

Match Thoughts

Like Jerry Springer, but for rugby league.

A win is a win, and holding the title of Queensland’s best so far in 2026 feels a little shallow, but again Dolphins fans will take it.

It took a long time for the Dolphins to get going in their game v Gold Coast on Sunday at Suncorp Stadium, for a second week the attack looked a little clunky, and forward momentum relied upon the big forwards and Herbie Farnworth giving it everything with every run. Herbie has been exceptional for the Dolphins since defecting from the Broncos. The most recent Broncos defector Selwyn Cobbo put in a decent shift on Sunday night in terms of cleaning up at the back, but we’re yet to see the best of him in attack. Hopefully the Dolphins can open up in the coming weeks.

Once again, with the Titans proving hard to crack, and the Dolphins handing over too much ball, it was the perfect stage for Trai Fuller to come into the game, but unfortunately by the time he would have been very useful the Dolphins had used the four players off the bench. Of course you’re not going to say no to Ray Stone, who would dare, and Felisa Kaufusi is always good value before he gets suspended, and Oryn Keeley deserves game time after his 2025 heroics. That leaves the back up hooker Brad Schneider. He’s a great signing for depth in the halves, but he isn’t a hooker, and the Dolphins kind of need an 80 minute hooker so they can add Trai Fuller unto the rotation.

The Gold Coast were good value for the first half, and the points festival many were hoping for didn’t eventuate as the Titans were able to apply pressure to shut down anything threatening. It was a better effort against the Dolphins than Round 1’s loss to the Sharks, but they too lacked cut-through in attack, especially in the second half.

Eventually the Dolphins got going with Kulikefu Finefeuiaki’s try a bit lucky with a bouncing ball after a short drop out from the Titans, but it was no less a reward than the second rower deserved. He has been very good for the Dolphins both weeks, getting solid 80 minute performances out of him.

Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow lit up the Sunday evening crowd at Suncorp with an almost length of the field run late in the game, and his try to take the lead was well received. It came after a slightly different tactic from Isaiya Katoa on the last, dropping a shorter bomb inwards to a flying Hammer. When Katoa changes it up it pays dividends more often than not, so as good as he is, mixing up a little more might unlock a little more out of the Dolphins attack.

A timely win for the Dolphins, who have a hard run over the next six weeks, with a trip to Sydney for Cornulla, a Battle of Brisbane, plus trips to Darwin to play Penrith and over to Auckland for the in-form Warriors, with home games to Manly and the Storm thrown in. You could argue that even two wins from that six would be a decent return, but that would leave your 2026 at W3 L5, which isn’t great, but better than last season’s 0-4 start.

The Points of Interest

Dolphins lead the H2H v Gold Coast 6-1 now.
Gold Coast have lost their last eight away games on a Sunday v all teams.
Dolphins have won their last three games at Suncorp Stadium v Qld opposition as the home side.

Stay tuned for the other games this weekend. Or read below……

The Rest of 2026 NRL Round 2

NRL ROUND 2 PREDICTIONS & STATS
THE NRL DONKEY’s BOLD PREDICTIONS
NRL ROUND 2 RATINGS
NRL ROUND 2 BEST BETS

The Park Cricketer – The Intense Teammate

By

Andrew Pelechaty

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March 13, 2026

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A team of social cricketers have been surprised by the intensity of their new teammates.

Marto’s Mashers play in the C Grade South Queensland 50 over competition, where the emphasis is on having fun than mates and getting on the piss rather than winning premierships.

Though that changed when a new teammate joined (Simon).

“Simon’s intensity shocked us from the start,” said team captain Marto. “He quickly started giving us tips on how to fix our dodgy actions and barely-there batting techniques.”

“At first we were a bit scared of him as he was very intense in the field and expected everyone to live up to his standard. We even considered asking him to leave as he cricket was becoming too serious and we were scared of making mistakes and copping his wrath.”

But a session on the beers after one game cleared things up.

“We got smashed – again – and he hid the esky while he gave us both barrels, ripping into our poor catching and lack of enthusiasm in the field. One of the boys had had a gutful and asked him why he bothered playing in our s****y league if he wanted to win so bad and that most of the boys were terrified of him.”

“I told the boys that I had played my share of high-level cricket, but injuries had caught up and I didn’t have the time to commit to proper club cricket,” said Simon. “I was planning to go easy, but the instincts kicked in and my competitiveness took over. I didn’t realise I’d come off as so intense. I was just doing what I’ve done for the last 20 years.”

With fences mended, Simon agreed to tone down the intensity, as long as everyone promised to try their best, and offered to help anyone who asked for help on their batting, bowling, or fielding.

And it worked, with Marto’s Mashers squeezing into sixth in a six team finals series and going on a run to the grand final. While they lost the grand final, Simon was pleased they made an effort.

“That’s all I wanted,” said Simon, “For the boys to actually try! And we nearly won a premiership!”

“You know what, winning was actually fun! And the beer tastes so much better afterwards!” said Marto.

Embed from Getty Images

The Gurgler presents stories of the Park Cricketer, where we explore the lower reaches of the great game of cricket from the suburban ovals and rural grounds across Australia.

EVERYDAY NEWS – The Surprise Friday the 13th

By

Andrew Pelechaty

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March 13, 2026

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With another Friday the 13th upon us, Everyday News reporters (after forgetting to do it last month) decided to catch up with their favourite triskaidekaphobia person, Peter.

But the results were surprising.

“Yeah, nah mate, don’t bother with this nonsense now. I’m not afraid of 13 anymore,” said Peter.

“I was sick of being controlled by a stupid number, so I decided to take an online CBT (Cognitive Behavour Therapy) course to get to the bottom of it. Best thing I ever did. I feel so much freer now! I can do things 13 times and not freak out anymore! It’s only a number!”

At a loose end, the Everyday News reporters asked Peter if they wanted to go to the pub for dinner, which he agreed to.

“I might even have 13 beers! Ha ha!”

Embed from Getty Images

FOOTBALL | 2025-26 Premier League Predictions Week 30

By

Theydon Bois

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March 13, 2026

0

2025-26 Premier League Predictions Feature Image

More expendable than a regular manager, more incompetent than a Spurs manager, in danger of being sent out on loan or sold to Spurs, on the verge of suspension due to excessive yellow cards, playing in a formation that was unfashionable and illegal 60 years ago, but somehow still getting the full support of the Chairman, it’s our 2025-26 Premier League Predictions Week 30.

Each gameweek in this 2025-26 Premier League season we offer up a stat filled prediction preview, with some barely interesting stats and visuals, just enough to bluff your way through various tipping competitions or betting shops.

Barely Interesting Stats – 2025-26 Premier League Predictions Week 30 – Stats and Thoughts

Help yourself to a buffet of barely interesting stats, quick one liners and more to help pick a winner.

BEST OF WEEK 30 STATS

Burnley have never been beaten at home on a Saturday by Bournemouth (W8 D4).

Since 1992, Chelsea’s home record v Newcastle is W22 D7 L1.

Arsenal’s home record v Everton in the Premier League era since 1992 is W27 D6 L2.

There has only been one Sunday game between Nottingham Forest and Fulham. And Fulham won the away game by 4-0.

Going back to 1985 Man Utd’s home record v Aston Villa is W29 D7 L2.

2025-26 Premier League Predictions Week 30

SATURDAY 3PM – BURNLEY v BOURNEMOUTH

Stats: Bournemouth have won their last two visits to Burnley by 2-0. Bournemouth (W5 D4) are undefeated v bottom six clubs, one of only three teams – the others are Man Utd and Arsenal. Burnley have never been beaten at home on a Saturday by Bournemouth (W8 D4).

Verdict: The Saturday 3pm game of the week.

Prediction: Burnley 1 Bournemouth 1

SATURDAY 3PM – SUNDERLAND v BRIGHTON

Stats: Sunderland are undefeated in their last nine games v Brighton (W7 D2) and have won the last five. Sunderland’s W7 D5 L2 record at home is good enough for 6th place on the home game table. Brighton’s W3 D4 L7 away record is the Premier League fifth worst effort. Brighton are undefeated v promoted sides this season W2 D1.

Verdict: The nothing-riding-on-it game of the week.

Prediction: Sunderland 1 Brighton 0

SATURDAY 5:30PM – CHELSEA v NEWCASTLE

Stats: Chelsea are undefeated in their last 12 home league games v Newcastle – with a record of W11 D1. Since 1992, Chelsea’s home record v Newcastle is W22 D7 L1. At home on a Saturday that 1992 run improves to W14 D4. The last time Newcastle beat Chelsea at Chelsea on a Saturday was 1986. Newcastle are W1 L3 away to big six clubs this season. Newcastle are W1 L2 away to London clubs this season. Overall Newcastle’s away form is the Premier League’s fourth worst.

Verdict: Historic form says a Chelsea win should probably happen, and current form says a Chelsea red card probably will too.

Prediction: Chelsea 3 Newcastle 1

SATURDAY 5:30PM – ARSENAL v EVERTON

Stats: Arsenal’s home record v Everton in the Premier League era since 1992 is W27 D6 L2. Arsenal’s home record this season is W11 D2 L1 but not best – they are behind Man City by a point for home form, with one less home game played. Everton are W2 D1 L5 v current top six sides this season and W2 L3 away. David Moyes’ record v Arsenal as a manager is W6 D11 L29.

Verdict: Perfect time for Arsenal to prove they won’t bottle the title here.

Prediction: Arsenal 2 Everton 0

SATURDAY 8PM – WEST HAM v MANCHESTER CITY

Stats: West Ham (D2 L7) are one of only two team not to beat a current top six side this season – Burnley are the other. Man City are W7 D2 L1 v current bottom six clubs. Man City (W17 D3) are undefeated in their last 20 league games v West Ham including a run of seven straight wins. Man City have scored three or more goals in their last six wins over West Ham. Man City are also on a run of ten unbeaten at West Ham (W7 D3).

Verdict: A free hit for West Ham, a key game at either ends of the table.

Prediction: West Ham 1 Man City 3

SUNDAY 2PM – MANCHESTER UTD v ASTON VILLA

Stats: Man Utd have won their last three at home to Aston Villa. Going back to 1985 Man Utd’s home record is W29 D7 L2. Man Utd have never been beaten at home on a Sunday to Aston Villa (W6 D2). Aston Villa are W5 L3 v big six clubs this season.

Form v Top Six Sides
Man Utd: All W4 L3 – Home W2 L1
Aston Villa: All W4 L3 – Away W1 L2

Verdict: That guy really needs a haircut.

Prediction: Man Utd 2 Aston Villa 0

SUNDAY 2PM – NOTTINGHAM FOREST v FULHAM

Stats: Fulham have won six of the last seven clashes with Nottingham Forest. Fulham have also won five of the last six games v Nottingham Forest in Nottingham. There has only been one Sunday game between Nottingham Forest and Fulham. And Fulham won the away game by 4-0. Fulham are W3 L1 away to bottom six sides this season. Nottingham Forest’s last six home games have ended D3 L3.

Verdict: A chance for Forest to get some relegation breathing space.

Prediction: Nottingham Forest 1 Fulham 2

SUNDAY 2PM – CRYSTAL PALACE v LEEDS

Stats: Crystal Palace are unbeaten in their last six home games v Leeds – W3 D3. Crystal Palace are 3/3 for League games at home on a Sunday. Crystal Palace are W5 D2 L3 v current bottom six. Leeds (D3 L3) are one of three sides not to win away to a middle eight team – with Wolves and Sunderland.

Verdict: A chance for Leeds to get some relegation breathing space.

Prediction: Crystal Palace 3 Leeds 0

SUNDAY 4:30PM – LIVERPOOL v SPURS

Stats: Going back to 2013, Liverpool’s league record v Spurs is W18 D6 L2. Liverpool haven’t lost a home league game to Spurs since 2011, it’s been W10 D4 since. In the Premier League era, Liverpool’s home record is W23 D9 L2. On a Sunday at either ground since 2018, Liverpool are W12 D3 L1 in League games. Liverpool are unbeaten in their last 13 home games on a Sunday v Spurs (W10 D3) and they have won and scored a total of 13 goals in the last three home games to Spurs on a Sunday. Liverpool are currently W6 D3 L2 v current bottom six sides.

Verdict: Just how busted arse are Spurs? Seen the stats at Liverpool for them? Maybe the coach will bench himself after 20 minutes.

Prediction: Liverpool 5 Spurs 1

MONDAY 8PM – BRENTFORD v WOLVES

Stats: Brentford have won just one of the last six games at home to Wolves but at least it was the last match there. Otherwise it’s L3 D2 over the previous five games before that. Wolves have won the last three midweek games v Brentford. Brentford are currently W4 D2 L3 v current bottom six clubs. Wolves are D1 L4 for away games v London sides this season.

Verdict: No one except Brentford and Wolves fans will be hanging out for this one.

Prediction: Brentford 0 Wolves 1

2025-26 Premier League Predictions Week 30

And here are all the tips together in one place for your convenience.

Burnley 1 Bournemouth 1
Sunderland 1 Brighton 0
Chelsea 3 Newcastle 1
Arsenal 2 Everton 0
West Ham 1 Man City 3
Man Utd 2 Aston Villa 0
Nottingham Forest 1 Fulham 2
Crystal Palace 3 Leeds 0
Liverpool 5 Spurs 1
Brentford 0 Wolves 1

2025-26 Premier League Season Stats

Each week we’ll bring you some of the choicest cuts of stats we have created from our Data super computer called Jeff.

F1 | 2026 Chinese F1 Grand Prix Prix-View

By

Perry Thrust

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March 12, 2026

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Still coming down from the high that was the opening race of the season? Not concerned that the drivers think it’s like MarioKart? Curious to know the reason behind the shape of the Chinese GP track? Wondering how many races Mercedes are going to win this season and how insufferable will George Russell be doing it? Then let our 2026 Chonese F1 Grand Prix Prix-View answer some of those big questions and more that you didn’t ask for.

The Gurgler’s 2026 Chinese F1 Grand Prix Prix-View brings some thoughts on what the race weekend ahead might bring, and we throw in more than a few barely interesting stats.

Essentially a quick summary of what a casual F1 fan needs in the shortest possible time for your convenience.

And for F1 opinion, stand by for the F1 Donkey’s Bold Predictions and Opinion where no one and nothing is safe. And like the cars around him on the grid, Lance Stroll.

2026 Chinese F1 Grand Prix Prix-view – Race Potential Rating

The Gurgler does like to use some obscure drivers in our Race previews and report, so who better to use than Teo Fabi to determine a race rating system.

So before each race we give a rating out of ten for four key category that are loosely based on each letter of Teo Fabi’s surname. Don’t know who Teo Fabi is, you should.

FAST? 3 / 10 – It’s fast enough in a modern way, and the walls of the parkland circuit make it feel faster than it would otherwise. Plus the sweeping turns on the far side of the circuits are plenty fast and good.

ACTION? 3 / 10 – It’s a track where stuff usually happens. It’s the first race of the season, and with the added mystery of whether the cars and drivers can handle all the new technology, and in a city with very random weather, it should be a solid mix for action.

BIG HISTORY? – 3 / 10 – It’s been around for a while, with an ironic break because of Covid. But it always feels like the box ticker for geography. Although I do remember Lance Stroll v Daniel Riccardo in 2024.

INCLEMENT WEATHER? – 2 /10 – The Weather Channel says next to no chance of rain, but it could be quite cold, so who knows how that affects the cars and their new toys.

RACE POTENTIAL RATING 28% – Not sure if anyone really missed this track when it was away. It’s better than no race, and those are coming up soon.

2026 Chinese F1 Grand Prix Prix-view – Stats Summary

Want to know if your favourite driver for this weekend is a master of the track or the track is a master of them? Here then are some barely interesting facts and stats.

BEST OF STATS

Sixth place on the grid has won the Chinese Grand Prix twice.
Grid slots as low as 16th and 18th have secured a podium here.
Of the drivers to have made three starts or more in China, only Carlos Sainz and Lando Norris have avoided a Q1 elimination.

Driver Stats – Chinese F1 Grand Prix

Team Stats – Chinese F1 Grand Prix

History Stats – Chinese F1 Grand Prix

99 = a DNF. Grid position 20 is overstated as that was also used for cars starting in pitlane. Results from all races for long term history and from 2021 from Grid to Race positions. stated.

Other Stats – Chinese F1 Grand Prix

F1 2025 Season Stuff

NRL | 2026 NRL Round 2 Ratings and Late Mail

By

Max Layne

-

March 11, 2026

0

NRL | 2026 NRL Round 1 Ratings and Late Mail

Been too distracted by the six agains? Do you need some last-minute NRL tipping advice? Or simply want something else to blame when the tips go wrong? Either way, The Gurgler’s 2026 NRL Round 2 Ratings and Late Mail is here to deliver a little help.

In addition to our huge stable of NRL stats and tipping gear, we have used all the stats we have, smashed them against each other like atoms, and come up with a H2H rating as dangerous to the outside world as Chernobyl.

We include lots of things, and add to it as the season progresses, come up with a magic number for each team, then slice up the scores out of 100% between the two sides. The bigger the percentage, the more likely to win.

And always, Win Early, Win Often.

2026 NRL Round 2 Ratings

Here are the latest H2H ratings and winners for the big weekend of NRL action ahead.

2026 NRL Round 2 Late Mail

Now we go through every game pointing out the good and the grape (a different way of saying not so great). Be it stats, players ins and outs, or any word on the street we can share.

THURSDAY 8pm – BRISBANE 56% v PARRAMATTA 44%

Good:

Ezra Mam being named to start at five eighth, especially after they scored zero the week before.

Brisbane won both of their Thursday home games in 2025.

Parramatta at Suncorp Stadium isn’t bad at all – they won this fixture last season at Suncorp Stadium. Parramatta have won four of the last five games v Brisbane at Suncorp Stadium. Plus the Eels are W3 L1 for games v Brisbane at Suncorp Stadium on a Thursday.

Josh Addo-Carr IN.

Grape:

Brisbane’s win rate is 42% v Sydney teams at Suncorp Stadium since 2020. Overall it is 50%.

Payne Haas’ signing for Souths in 2027 is going to be talking point with every loss this season.

J’maine Hopgood OUT

FRIDAY 6pm – WAHS 46% v CANBERRA 54%

Good:

Matthew Timoko IN

Players with the name Ethan.

Canberra on a Friday – Canberra have won their last five Friday games and Canberra have won their last four away games on a Friday too.

Warriors win last weekend was mightily impressive, enough to need zero changes to the line up.

Grape:

Josh Papalii OUT

Warriors haven’t won back to back home games at Mt Smart since Round 7 last year.

FRIDAY 8pm – ROOSTERS 53% v SOUTH SYDNEY 47%

Good:

An unbeaten 10/10 against South Sydney at the Sydney Football Stadium on a Friday.

Roosters v Souths on a Friday, and recently – Roosters have won five of the last six games v South Sydney, won five of the last six games v South Sydney at the Sydney Football Stadium, including the last three and won six of the last seven games v South Sydney on a Friday.

Roosters at home on a Friday too v all teams – they have won 12 of their last 13 at the Sydney Football Stadium on a Friday.

Robert Toia IN.

Souths looked nearly back to their best last weekend with returning players. Especially Latrell Mitchell and Cody Walker.

Potential of Alex Johnston breaking try scoring record.

Grape:

Never beating the Roosters on a Friday at the Sydney Football Stadium since 1998.

Souths away on a Friday too – South Sydney lost all five away games on a Friday last season.

In Between:

Jayden Sullivan in for Ashton Ward at halfback.

SATURDAY 3pm – WESTS TIGERS 42% v NORTH QUEENSLAND 58%

Good:

Lots of points – The last six games between these sides have averaged 71 points and the last four games between these sides at Leichhardt average 72 points.

Cowboys recent record v Tigers – North Queensland have won the last five games v Wests Tigers and North Queensland have won the last two, and three of the last four games v Tigers at Leichhardt.

Both sides are well rested, not playing last weekend. Tigers didn’t have to travel to the USA to get that week off.

Benji Marshall selecting Heamasi Makasini to play. Kai Pearce-Paul to make his Tigers debut.

Grape:

Cowboys effort in Las Vegas in Round 1.

Bye-Bye wins – Wests Tigers have won just once after a bye since they were re-introduced in 2023.

SATURDAY 5:30pm – ST GEORGE ILLAWARRA 34% v MELBOURNE 68%

Good:

St George Illawarra have won the last two games v Melbourne.

Melbourne have won the last three games v St George Illawarra at Win Stadium.

Melbourne’s effort last weekend v Parramatta.

Grape:

Melbourne’s record v Sydney teams on a Saturday – since 2021 it is a win rate of 54%, and they lost three of four games in 2025. Overall Melbourne’s record v Sydney teams since 2021 is 70%.

It isn’t Round 1 – Melbourne are only W6 L4 in Round 2 games going back to 2015.

Dragons have had to travel back from the USA.

SATURDAY 7:30pm – PENRITH 49% v CRONULLA 51%

Good:

Penrith have recently dominated Cronulla – they have won five in a row v Cronulla and nine of the last ten games. Cronulla have scored zero three times in that run.

Both clubs had strong wins last weekend with strong defence.

Both sides are settled too. Winning helps.

Grape:

That Cronulla record v Penrith is hard to ignore.

In Between:

Penrith are W6 L5 at Bathurst. That improves to W6 L4 on a Saturday.

SUNDAY 4pm – MANLY 66% v NEWCASTLE 34%

Good:

Manly good at home to Newcastle – Manly’s record v Newcastle as the home side is W14 D1 L2 from the last 17 games. At Brookvale since 1998 it is W12 L4.

Grape:

Newcastle’s Sunday form in 2025 and beyond – Newcastle have lost their last eight away games on a Sunday. Newcastle have lost all seven away games on a Sunday v Sydney teams across 2024 and 2025.

Siosiua Taukeiaho OUT.

Fletcher Sharpe OUT – although Sandon Smith did equally well when filling in.

In Between:

The record for team that played in Las Vegas in Round 2 in 2024 and 2025 is W5 L3.

SUNDAY 6:15pm – DOLPHINS 69% v GOLD COAST 31%

Good:

Dolphins are W5 L1 v Gold Coast.

Dolphins still scored 30 points despite not playing that well.

Max Plath and Ray Stone return.

Grape:

Trai Fuller will hopefully be played more this weekend, otherwise the Dolphins might struggle to keep him when he goes off contract.

Some bad away form for the Titans – Gold Coast have lost their last seven away games on a Sunday v all teams and they have lost their last seven away games in Round 2.

In Between:

The Titans haven’t made a change from a side beaten 50-10 last weekend.

Other 2026 NRL Round 2 Preview Stuff

Here’s the best of our wrap ups of last weekend and look forward to this weekend.

NRL ROUND 2 PREDICTIONS N STATS
NRL DONKEY ROUND 2 EXPERT TIPS AND RANT
NRL ROUND 2 BEST BETS
NRL Results R1 One Minute Match Review

F1 | 2026 Australian Grand Prix Ratings – G-Power Rankings

By

Perry Thrust

-

March 11, 2026

0

Here are The Gurgler’s 2026 Australian Grand Prix Ratings – our way of rating the performances on the track without causing any red flags or running into our nearest website.

Our G-Power Rankings goes a little bit deeper than just points scored on the Sunday and has a slightly cooler name than most. We take on board Free Practice, Qualifying, performance in relation to teammate, fastest lap, and a few more stats that are attempting to highlight a driver outperforming the car and/or thrashing their teammate.

We offer up a season long bunch of stats, enough to distract you until the next Grand Prix comes along, and enough to tell the story of the 2025 F1 season so far.

2026 Australian Grand Prix Race Result Summary

2026 Australian Grand Prix Ratings – Drivers

Here are the current overall standings for our Driver of the Year winner – the Martini Medal. Named in honour of one of F1’s most unsung heroes – Pierluigi Martini of Minardi fame.

We have the overall scores as they stand, plus a visual which shows the flow of each driver’s position throughout the season, plus a few points of interest below.

Here is the breakdown of the Driver of the Year points from the most recent race and the season so far. Remembering our ratings go across a whole weekend, so the race winner who may not have had a great qualifying or sprint race may not come out on top.

LATEST RACE RATINGS & DRIVER OF THE YEAR UPDATE

2026 Australian Grand Prix Ratings – Teams

This is essentially using the same drivers stats but in reverse for the worst score, but taking out anything that is a H2H between the drivers.

And our annual award focuses on the other end of the grid, highlighting the worst team of the season.

Of course, the worst team of the season award needs to be named after the worst F1 team of all time. And if you want to fund out more about Andrea Moda, follow this link.

LATEST RACE & SEASON RATINGS

F1 2026 SEASON STATS

Here is the best of the stats from the 2026 F1 season so far. Which we admit isn’t much, but stay tuned throughout the year for more.

H2H

Here is the ultimate H2H comparison, with the overall qualifying and race measures, plus one that calculates all official sessions across the weekend.

QUALIFYING – DRIVERS

With qualifying becoming all important, here are some key stats from the season that is.

FASTEST LAP

It may be a token win, so here is a token bunch of stats.

1ST LAP PROGRESS

The movers and shakers of 2025 F1 Season.

FREE PRACTICE

Some say Free Practice is a giant waste of time, and they are probably right. Regardless here is the average position for each drivers in Free Practice this season. Each round an average of all the sessions.

2025 F1 Season Power Rankings – Points Explanation

Here’s how the points work this season. Essentially the perfect race (Win from Pole, Fastest Lap, thrash team mate, best in race etc) should amount to the perfect 100 points.

FIRST LAP GAINS +0.5pts per position gained -0.5pts per position lost.
CHAMPIONSHIP POINTS – 25pts to 1pt as per World Championship – Sprint Race Points added.
BEAT TEAM MATE (RACE) – 10pts (if both finish or other driver got self inflicted DNF)
FASTEST LAP – 5pts – 1pt for top five drivers.
GRID POSITION TO RACE POSITION – formula +/- relative finish to grid
BEST OF THE REST (RACE) – 5pts to 1pt – top five non Mercedes-Red Bull drivers
QUALIFYING – 20pts to 1pt – Grid Position 1 to 20.
BEAT TEAM MATE (QUALIFYING) – 5pts
BEST OF THE REST (QUALIFYING) – 5pts to 1pt – top five non Mercedes-Red Bull drivers
GREAT/GRAPE – 5pts Great 2pts Honourable Mention -2Pts Dishonourable Mention -5Pts Grape
BEAT TEAM MATE (QUALIFYING) Time Gap – Formula for % beaten team mate by
BEAT TEAM MATE (QUALIFYING) Position – 0.5 Pts for every position team mate is beaten by. 0 points for second car.
FREE PRACTICE HERO – 10Pts to 1Pt – Average Position across all three practice sessions.
WIN FROM POLE – Bonus 5 Points
WIN FROM POLE WITH FASTEST LAP – Bonus 10 Points
DNF Not Driver or Team Fault Minus 2 Points
DNF CAUSED BY DRIVER/TEAM INCOMPETENCE Minus 5 Points
SPRINT RACE POINTS – Points 8 to 1 as handed out in the sprint race.
SPRINT RACE CHANGE – 0.5 Points per change in end position to starting position.
SPRINT RACE QUAL – Points 8 to 1 as handed out in the order of qualifying 1st to 8th.

NRL | 2026 NRL Round 1 Team of the Week & Player Stats

By

Max Layne

-

March 10, 2026

0

Time to separate the rugby league Wheat/Chaff or the NRL Mutton/Lamb and present the 2026 NRL Round 1 Team of the Week & Player Stats.

First we have our Team of the Week, which takes some of the key player stats from the weekend and using various scoring methods come up with the best players in their positions from the latest round of the NRL.

Then there’s additional player stats from this weekend that was and the season that is.

2026 NRL Round 1 Team of the Week – Part Two

We’ve used the stats for each position and picked the best starting 13 players from the most recent round, the stats and points assigned are explained at the end.

On top of the best starting 13, we also include the best four interchange players of the week. Seeing who has provided maximum impact from the bench.

This is just fox the six games played in Australia.