Melbourne Secures Formula 1 Future: Australian Grand Prix Extended Until 2035 with F2 and F3 Inclusion

The exhilarating spectacle of the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix is set to remain a cornerstone of the global motorsport calendar for at least another decade, following a landmark agreement between the race promoters and Formula 1. This new 10-year contract, which commences after the current deal concludes in three years, ensures that Melbourne’s iconic Albert Park circuit will host the pinnacle of motorsport until at least 2035. Beyond simply extending the main event, this groundbreaking deal also heralds the exciting arrival of the FIA Formula 2 and Formula 3 Championships, bringing an unprecedented depth of racing action to Australian shores from 2023.

A Decade of Motorsport in Melbourne: A Strategic Partnership

This long-term commitment solidifies Melbourne’s position as a premier global sporting city and a crucial destination for Formula 1. With the existing contract still having three years to run, the new agreement effectively extends F1’s presence in Australia for a remarkable 13 years from now, promising stability and growth for both the sport and the vibrant city of Melbourne. This strategic alliance underscores the mutual benefits of the partnership, recognizing Melbourne’s passionate fanbase, world-class infrastructure, and its ability to consistently deliver an exceptional event experience.

F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali articulated the significance of the extension, stating, “The race has always been a favourite for the fans, drivers and the teams and Melbourne is an incredible and vibrant international city that is a perfect match for our sport.” He further emphasized the growing appeal of Formula 1 globally, noting, “This year we saw huge crowds and passionate fans at the grand prix and we are very excited by the future in Australia as our sport continues to grow.” The consistent large attendances and enthusiastic atmosphere witnessed at the Albert Park circuit reinforce Australia’s critical role in Formula 1’s expanding global footprint, particularly within the Asia-Pacific region.

The Arrival of Formula 2 and Formula 3: Nurturing Future Stars

A significant highlight of this new agreement is the confirmation that Formula 2 and Formula 3 will serve as official support races for the Australian Grand Prix starting from 2023. This marks a historic moment, as it will be the first time that these two official junior categories, renowned for nurturing the next generation of Formula 1 talent, will race at the challenging Albert Park circuit. The inclusion of F2 and F3 adds immense value to the Grand Prix weekend, offering fans an even richer motorsport experience and a glimpse into the future stars of the sport.

Bruno Michel, CEO of Formula 2 and Formula 3, expressed his enthusiasm for this expansion: “I am extremely happy to add Melbourne to both F2 and F3 calendars from 2023. It further enhances the international aspect of both our championships, having them race on a new continent. It also shows that more and more circuits believe that F2 and F3 are an added value to the Formula 1 grand prix experience, showcasing the next generation of drivers.” For aspiring Australian motorsport talents, having these feeder series on home soil provides an invaluable platform and inspiration, potentially paving the way for more local drivers to climb the ranks to Formula 1.

F2 and F3 will provide thrilling support races at the 2023 Australian Grand Prix, showcasing motorsport’s rising stars.

Transforming the Albert Park Circuit: Enhancements for an Unforgettable Experience

The Albert Park circuit has consistently evolved to meet the demands of modern Formula 1. Prior to its highly anticipated return in 2022 after a three-year hiatus due to the global pandemic, the iconic Melbourne venue underwent substantial redevelopment. These comprehensive revisions, which included modifications to several corners and strategic widening of others, were primarily designed to foster more competitive wheel-to-wheel action and significantly improve overtaking opportunities, addressing previous feedback from drivers and fans alike regarding the circuit’s flow and potential for on-track battles. The transformation aimed to create a faster, more flowing layout while retaining the parkland circuit’s unique character, ultimately delivering a more thrilling experience for both competitors and spectators.

Under the terms of the new agreement, further significant improvements are planned for the circuit’s crucial infrastructure, specifically targeting the pit lane and paddock facilities. Formula 1 confirmed these upgrades will “enhance the fan experience but also modernise the facilities for the teams that will be essential for the smooth running of the event over the next decade.” These forward-thinking enhancements demonstrate a commitment to providing state-of-the-art amenities for both the thousands of passionate fans who flock to the event and the teams, engineers, and personnel who make the Grand Prix possible. A modernized paddock ensures operational efficiency and comfort for the highly demanding F1 circus, reflecting the sport’s continuous drive for excellence.

The Australian Grand Prix, a favourite among F1 enthusiasts, drivers, and teams, is confirmed on the F1 calendar until 2035.

A Storied History and Future Calendar Position

The Australian Grand Prix boasts a rich and storied history within Formula 1. While Melbourne has hosted the event since 1996, the race’s presence on the calendar dates back to 1985 when it was held at the street circuit of Adelaide. During its time in Adelaide (1985-1995), the Australian Grand Prix frequently concluded the championship season, often providing dramatic finales. Upon its move to Melbourne in 1996, the race took on a new prestigious role, becoming the traditional season-opener, a position it held for many years and that fans eagerly anticipated as the official start of the Formula 1 season. This opening slot allowed Melbourne to kick off the championship with a bang, showcasing new cars, new liveries, and new driver lineups.

The race last opened the championship in 2019. The highly anticipated 2020 event was also scheduled to inaugurate the season but was dramatically cancelled at the eleventh hour after competitors had already arrived, as the global Covid-19 pandemic began to take hold. This unforeseen cancellation highlighted the unprecedented challenges faced by international sports at the time. While no date has yet been announced for next year’s race, it is widely speculated that the 2023 Australian Grand Prix is unlikely to reclaim its traditional position as the season-opener on the Formula 1 calendar, with other venues reportedly vying for or securing that coveted slot.

Ending Speculation and Reinforcing Local Pride

Melbourne’s new, long-term contract effectively puts an end to speculation surrounding the future of the Australian Grand Prix. Last year, reports emerged that Sydney was actively considering a bid to take over the prestigious event, potentially drawing it away from its long-standing home in Melbourne. This new agreement firmly secures the race’s tenure in Victoria, much to the delight of local residents and motorsport enthusiasts across the state and the nation. It represents a significant victory for Melbourne, reinforcing its reputation as Australia’s sporting capital and a global hub for major events.

Andrew Westacott, CEO of the Australian Grand Prix Corporation, hailed the new deal as “sensational” and “simply great for Melbourne and Victoria.” He further elaborated on the broader impact, stating, “It builds on our rich motor sport history as well as Melbourne’s love of big sporting events and provides aspiration to the next generation of Aussie racing stars. We’re proud of our strong relationship with Formula 1 and together we will grow the sport in Australia and the broader Asia-Pacific region.” This sentiment underscores the profound cultural and economic benefits the Grand Prix brings, from inspiring young athletes to boosting tourism and showcasing the region on an international stage. Westacott concluded with a forward-looking statement: “Everyone at the Australian Grand Prix Corporation looks forward to taking the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix to new levels over the course of the next 13 years.”

This comprehensive extension for the Australian Grand Prix, coupled with the exciting addition of Formula 2 and Formula 3, marks a vibrant new chapter for motorsport in Melbourne. It promises more thrilling racing, enhanced facilities, and continued economic benefits, solidifying the event’s status as a must-attend fixture on the global sporting calendar for many years to come.

Melbourne Seals Decade-Long F1 Future With F2 and F3 Inclusion