The Australian Grand Prix is back at Albert Park this weekend, featuring two local stars on the grid together for the first time in over a decade. McLaren’s Oscar Piastri and RB’s Daniel Ricciardo will be competing for points as the motorsports world turns its attention to Melbourne for the highly-anticipated third round of the season.
Last year’s Australian GP set a record with 444,631 fans in attendance, becoming Melbourne’s most attended weekend sporting event in history. However, this year spectators will not be allowed at the track or pitlane due to safety concerns. Those caught on the track could face fines of up to $17,307 and be banned from future events, as reported by The Herald Sun.
Concerns arose last year when a group of spectators breached security lines and accessed the track during the race. In addition, drivers complained about glare from the sun towards the end of the race. This year, the race has been rescheduled to occur before daylight savings end, essentially starting an hour earlier than last year.
The 58-lap race will begin at 3pm AEDT on Sunday.
Internal Red Bull war still simmering | 01:32
SESSION TIMES (all times local)
Friday, March 22
12.30pm-1.30pm: F1 Practice 1
2pm – 2pm: Formula 3 Qualifying
4pm-5pm: F1 Practice 2
5.30pm – 6pm: Formula 2 Qualifying
Saturday, March 23
11.15am – 12pm: Formula 3 Sprint Race
12.30pm-1.30pm: F1 Practice 3
2.15pm – 3.05pm: Formula 2 Sprint Race
4pm-5pm: F1 Qualifying
Sunday, March 24
9.05am – 9.50am: Formula 3 Feature Race
11.35am – 12.35pm: Formula 2 Feature Race
1pm-1.30pm- F1 drivers’ parade
3pm-6pm: F1 race (58 laps)
Source: Getty Images
HOW TO WATCH
The entire Australian Grand Prix, including every practice, qualifying, and race, can be watched live and ad-break free on Foxtel and streaming platform Kayo. Sunday’s race will be broadcast free-to-air on Channel 10 and streaming service 10 Play.
WHAT HAPPENED LAST TIME?
Last year’s Australian Grand Prix was marked by chaos, including three red flags and a dramatic conclusion with Max Verstappen claiming victory. After various incidents, it was decided to set the final order based on the standings before the lap 57 restart, leading to Verstappen’s win ahead of Hamilton and Alonso.
‘Another frustrating night for Ricciardo | 00:27
PAST WINNERS
2023 – Max Verstappen, Red Bull
2022 – Charles Leclerc, Ferrari