The 2023 edition of the F1 Australian Grand Prix is taking place between March 30 – 2 April 2023.
Grand Prix is also featuring Formula 2 and Formula 3 races. F1 will hold a race in Melbourne until at least the end of 2037.
Schedule:
Thursday, March 30:
· No F1 cars on track
Friday, March 31:
· Free Practice 1 (12:30 pm - 1:30 pm AEDT)
· Free Practice 2 (4:00 pm - 5:00 pm AEDT)
Saturday, March 1:
· Free Practice 3 (12:30 pm - 1:30 pm AEDT)
· Qualifying (4:00 pm - 5:00 pm AEDT)
Sunday, March 2:
· Race (3:00 pm - approx. 5:00 pm AEST)
F1 Australian Grand Prix History:
The Australian Grand Prix is an annual motor race that takes place in Melbourne, Australia. It is one of the most prestigious events on the Formula One calendar, attracting thousands of spectators from around the world each year. The event has a rich history, with its roots dating back to the 1920s, and it has become a symbol of the country's love of motorsport.
The first Australian Grand Prix was held in 1928 at Phillip Island, a small island off the coast of Victoria. It was a 100-mile race, with an average speed of just over 60 miles per hour. The event was won by Arthur Waite, driving a Bugatti Type 37A. The race was an instant success, attracting a large crowd and generating considerable media attention.
Over the years, the Australian Grand Prix has been held at a number of different venues around the country, including Albert Park in Melbourne, Adelaide Street Circuit in Adelaide, and Phillip Island. However, since 1996, the race has been held exclusively at the Albert Park circuit, which has become synonymous with the event.
The Albert Park circuit is a temporary street circuit, which means that it is created specifically for the event and is not a permanent racetrack. The circuit is 5.3 kilometers long and features 16 turns. It is considered to be a challenging circuit for drivers, with a mix of high-speed straights and tight corners.
The Australian Grand Prix has become known for its electrifying atmosphere, with fans from around the world flocking to Melbourne to watch the race. The event is famous for its carnival-like atmosphere, with live music, food stalls, and other entertainment options available for spectators.
One of the highlights of the Australian Grand Prix is the pre-race show, which features a number of high-profile acts from around the world. Previous performers have included Kylie Minogue, Robbie Williams, and Coldplay.
The Australian Grand Prix is also known for attracting some of the biggest names in motorsport. Over the years, the event has seen legendary drivers such as Ayrton Senna, Michael Schumacher, and Lewis Hamilton take to the track. It has also been the scene of some of the most memorable moments in Formula One history, such as Mark Webber's first Grand Prix win in 2009.
The event has not been without controversy, however. In 2020, the Australian Grand Prix was cancelled at the last minute due to the outbreak of COVID-19. This was a major blow for motorsport fans around the world, who had been eagerly anticipating the event.
Despite this setback, the Australian Grand Prix remains one of the most important events on the Formula One calendar. It is seen as a vital race for teams and drivers, as it is the first race of the season and sets the tone for the rest of the year. It is also a popular event for sponsors, who use the race as an opportunity to promote their brands and products to a global audience.
In conclusion, the Australian Grand Prix is a truly iconic event that has become an integral part of the country's sporting landscape. It has a rich history, a challenging circuit, and a carnival-like atmosphere that attracts fans from around the world. Although the event has faced some challenges in recent years, it remains a vital part of the Formula One calendar and is sure to continue to thrill motorsport fans for many years to come.