F1 and Australian Grand Prix organisers have agreed a new long-term deal to keep the Melbourne-based race on the calendar until 2035.
The race originally took place in Adelaide from 1985-95 before it moved to Albert Park, Melbourne, where it has remained ever since despite being cancelled in 2020 and 21 due to the Coronavirus pandemic.
Speaking about this new long-term contract, Andrew Westacott, CEO of Australian Grand Prix Corporation, described the deal as “sensational” and serves as “great” stability for Melbourne moving forward whilst building on the country’s motorsport history.
Westacott also paid tribute to F1 for their hard work in this deal as he said: “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.
“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.”
F1 President and CEO, Stefano Domenicali meanwhile is “delighted” to secure a new long-term deal for the Australian GP, which will remain at Albert Park, Melbourne for the next 13 seasons.
Domenicali proceeded to describe the race as 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.”
The date of 2023 Australian GP will be confirmed in the coming months once the 2023 season calendar is finalised and ratified by World Motorsport Council.
Next season’s trip to Australia also won’t see F1 travelling alone as Formula 2 and Formula 3 for the very first time will also be in tow heading Down Under.
F2 and F3 CEO, Bruno Michel welcomed this positive development in light of Australia’s increased representation on the grids in both junior series, as well as the fact that Australia’s Oscar Piastri won 2021 F2 title in dominant style last season and is rumoured to join Williams in F1 next season.
Speaking about the decision to take F2 and F3 to Melbourne for the very first time, Michel commented: “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.”
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