Albert Park in profile
Last Updated: 24/05/23 1:39pm
The pre-Covid traditional first race of the season, Melbourne provides the setting for the definition of the word ‘vibe’ in the form of a Formula 1 weekend.
The best part of the Australian Grand Prix is not necessarily the racing but the buzz of getting up super early to soak in the atmosphere before having the whole Sunday ahead of you to see people or better, watch Ted's Notebook.
Though a source of controversy at the time - environmentalists claimed that the Albert Park Lake, around which the circuit runs and is named, was being damaged and turned into a playground for the rich - the transfer from F1 predecessor Adelaide has proved a success.
Track length - 5.278km
Number of laps - 58
A temporary street circuit, with a mix of fast flowing corners and technical sections set among the trees and lakes of the park, its unique charm and challenge makes it one of the highlights of the season.
Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, there was no Australian GP for three years but the event returned in 2022, and with it, came a new layout.
The old Turns Six and Seven chicane was straightened, the Turn Nine and 10 chicane removed completely and the run down to the old Turn 11 extended, with other parts of the track widened.
This was done to improve overtaking, which appeared to pay off in the races that have taken place since 2022.
