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{{short description|Motorsport race track in Melbourne, Australia}}
{{short description|Motorsport race track in Melbourne, Australia}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=February 2021}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=April 2022}}
{{Use Australian English|date=December 2012}}
{{Use Australian English|date=December 2021}}
{{Motorsport venue
{{Motorsport venue
|Name = Albert Park Circuit
|Name = Albert Park Circuit
|Time = [[UTC+10:00]] ([[UTC+11:00]] [[Daylight saving time|DST]])
|Time = [[Australian Eastern Standard Time|AEST]] (UTC+10:00)<br />[[Australian Eastern Daylight Time|AEDT]] (UTC+11:00 [[Daylight saving time|DST]])
|Location = [[Albert Park, Victoria|Albert Park]], [[Melbourne]], [[Victoria (Australia)]]
|Location = [[Albert Park, Victoria|Albert Park]], [[Melbourne]], [[Victoria (Australia)]]
|Coordinates = {{Coord|37|50|59|S|144|58|6|E|display=it}}
|Coordinates = {{Coord|37|50|59|S|144|58|6|E|type:landmark_region:AU-VIC|display=it}}
|Image = Albert Park Circuit 2021.svg
|Image = Albert Park Circuit 2021.svg
|Image_size=250px
|Image_size = 250px
|Image_caption = Albert Park Circuit (2021–present)
|Image_caption = Albert Park Circuit (2021–present)
|FIAGrade = 1
|FIAGrade = 1
|Opened = 20 November 1953<br>Re-opened: 7 March 1996
|Opened = {{Start date and age|df=yes|1953|11|20}}<br>Re-opened: {{Start date and age|df=yes|1996|03|07}}
|Closed = 30 November 1958
|Closed = {{Start date and age|df=yes|1958|11|30}}
|Events = '''Current:'''<br />''' [[Formula One]]'''<br />[[Australian Grand Prix]] (1996–2019, 2022) <br>'''[[Supercars Championship]]'''<br />[[Melbourne 400]] (2018–2019, 2022)<br />'''[[S5000 Australian Drivers' Championship|S5000]]''' (2022)<br />'''[[Porsche Carrera Cup Australia Championship]]'''<br> (2008, 2011–2020, 2022)
|Events = '''Current:'''<br />'''[[Formula One]]'''<br />''[[Australian Grand Prix]]'' (1996–2019, 2022–present)<br />'''Former:'''<br />[[Australian Drivers' Championship]] (1957–1958)
|Capacity = ~125,000 (44,000 seating)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.highwayf1.com/news/2022/2/26/capacity-crowd-for-australian-grand-prix-as-tickets-sell-out|title=Capacity crowd for Australian Grand Prix as ticket sell out|date=3 April 2022|work=Highway F1|author=Andrew Rickart|quote=Capacity for the venue is between 120,000 - 130,000, with organisers now expecting a crowd in excess of 100,000 on Saturday as well for Formula One qualifying.|access-date=9 April 2022|archive-date=26 February 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220226071846/https://www.highwayf1.com/news/2022/2/26/capacity-crowd-for-australian-grand-prix-as-tickets-sell-out|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/record-crowd-prompts-australian-gp-seating-rethink/10405542/|title=Record F1 crowd prompts Australian GP seating rethink|date=28 November 2022|access-date=28 November 2022|work=Motorsport.com}}</ref>
'''Former:'''<br />[[Australian GT Championship]] (2008–2010, 2016–2019)<br /> [[Ferrari Challenge|Ferrari Challenge Asia-Pacific]] (2018–2019)<br />[[Australian Formula 4 Championship|Australian F4]] (2019)<br />[[Porsche Supercup]] (1999)<br />[[Australian Drivers' Championship]] (1957–1958, 1996)
|Capacity = ~125,000 (39,000 seating)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.highwayf1.com/news/2022/2/26/capacity-crowd-for-australian-grand-prix-as-tickets-sell-out|title=Capacity crowd for Australian Grand Prix as ticket sell out|date=3 April 2022|work=Highway F1|author=Andrew Rickart|quote=Capacity for the venue is between 120,000 - 130,000, with organisers now expecting a crowd in excess of 100,000 on Saturday as well for Formula One qualifying.}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.austadiums.com/news/1168/australian-f1-grand-prix-set-to-go-at-enhanced-albert-park-circuit|date=7 April 2022|work=Austadiums|title=Australian F1 Grand Prix ready to go at enhanced Albert Park circuit|quote=Such has been the demand for the 2022 event, that several new grandstands have been added to the circuit, and others extended, with an additional 10,000 seats, boosting seating to around 39,000 across 17 grandstands.}}</ref>
|Layout1 = Grand Prix Circuit (2021–present)
|Layout1 = Grand Prix Circuit (2021–present)
|Length_km = 5.278
|Length_km = 5.278
|Length_mi = 3.280
|Length_mi = 3.280
|Turns = 14
|Turns = 14
|Record_time = 1:20.260
|Record_time = 1:19.813
|Record_driver = {{flagicon|MCO}} [[Charles Leclerc]]
|Record_driver = {{flagicon|MCO}} [[Charles Leclerc]]
|Record_car = [[Ferrari F1-75]]
|Record_car = [[Ferrari SF-24]]
|Record_year = [[2022 Australian Grand Prix|2022]]
|Record_year = [[2024 Australian Grand Prix|2024]]
|Record_class = [[Formula One|F1]]
|Layout2 = Grand Prix Circuit (1996–2020)<!-- Please do not change this to 2019; this configuration was used for some support categories during the 2020 Australian GP meeting -->
|Layout2 = Grand Prix Circuit (1996–2020)<!-- Please do not change this to 2019; this configuration was used for some support categories during the 2020 Australian GP meeting -->
|Length_km2 = 5.303
|Length_km2 = 5.303
Line 32: Line 32:
|Record_car2 = [[Ferrari F2004]]
|Record_car2 = [[Ferrari F2004]]
|Record_year2 = [[2004 Australian Grand Prix|2004]]
|Record_year2 = [[2004 Australian Grand Prix|2004]]
|Record_class2 = [[Formula One|F1]]
|Layout3 = Original Circuit (1953–1958)
|Layout3 = Original Circuit (1953–1958)
|Length_km3 = 5.027
|Length_km3 = 5.027
Line 38: Line 39:
|Record_time3 = 1:50.0
|Record_time3 = 1:50.0
|Record_driver3 = {{flagicon|GBR}} [[Stirling Moss]]
|Record_driver3 = {{flagicon|GBR}} [[Stirling Moss]]
|Record_car3 = [[Cooper Car Company|Cooper T45]]
|Record_car3 = [[Cooper T45]]
|Record_year3 = [[1958 Melbourne Grand Prix|1958]]
|Record_year3 = [[1958 Melbourne Grand Prix|1958]]
|Record_class3 = [[Formula Libre]]
|Record_class3 = [[Formula Libre]]
|Track_map={{maplink|from=Melbourne_F1_Track.map|frame=y|plain=yes|frame-align=center|frame-lat=-37.8459|frame-long=144.9698|zoom=13}}<!-- Link: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Data:Melbourne_F1_Track.map -->|Track_map_caption=Interactive track map|Surface=[[Asphalt concrete|Asphalt]]|Surface2=Asphalt}}
}}


The '''Albert Park Circuit''' is a [[motorsport]] [[street circuit]] around [[Albert Park and Lake|Albert Park Lake]], three kilometres south of central [[Melbourne]]. It is used annually as a circuit for the traditional [[Formula One]] season-opening [[Australian Grand Prix]], the supporting [[Supercars Championship]] [[Melbourne 400]] and other associated support races. The circuit has an [[FIA]] Grade 1 license.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.fia.com/sites/default/files/tableaulicencescircuit.pdf|title=List of FIA Licensed Circuits|date=6 February 2015|publisher=[[FIA]]|access-date=28 May 2015}}</ref>
The '''Albert Park Circuit''' is a [[motorsport]] [[street circuit]] around [[Albert Park and Lake|Albert Park Lake]] in the suburb of [[Albert Park, Victoria|Albert Park]] in [[Melbourne]]. It is used annually as a circuit for the [[Formula One]] [[Australian Grand Prix]], the supporting [[Supercars Championship]] [[Melbourne SuperSprint]] and other associated support races. The circuit has an [[FIA]] Grade 1 licence.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.fia.com/sites/default/files/tableaulicencescircuit.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150528073106/http://www.fia.com/sites/default/files/tableaulicencescircuit.pdf |archive-date=2015-05-28 |url-status=live|title=List of FIA Licensed Circuits|date=6 February 2015|publisher=[[FIA]]|access-date=28 May 2015}}</ref>


Although the entire track consists of normally public roads, each sector includes medium to high-speed characteristics more commonly associated with dedicated racetracks facilitated by grass and gravel run-off safety zones that are reconstructed annually. However, the circuit also has characteristics of a street circuit's enclosed nature due to concrete barriers annually built along the Lakeside Drive curve, in particular, where run-off is not available due to the proximity of the lake shore.<ref name = "F1 Fansite">{{cite web |url=https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-circuits/albert-park-circuit/ |title=The Albert Park Circuit |author=<!--Not stated--> |website=The F1 Fansite |access-date=20 June 2020 }}</ref>
Although the entire track consists of normally public roads, each sector includes medium to high-speed characteristics more commonly associated with dedicated racetracks facilitated by grass and gravel run-off safety zones that are reconstructed annually. However, the circuit also has characteristics of a street circuit's enclosed nature due to concrete barriers annually built along the Lakeside Drive curve, in particular, where run-off is not available due to the proximity of the lake shore.<ref name = "F1 Fansite">{{cite web |url=https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-circuits/albert-park-circuit/ |title=The Albert Park Circuit |author=<!--Not stated--> |website=The F1 Fansite |date=14 June 2012 |access-date=20 June 2020 }}</ref>


==Design==
==Design==
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The circuit uses everyday sections of road that circle Albert Park Lake, a small man-altered lake (originally a large lagoon formed as part of the ancient Yarra River course) just south of the Central Business District of Melbourne. The road sections that are used were rebuilt before the inaugural event in 1996 to ensure consistency and smoothness. As a result, compared to other circuits that are held on public roads, the Albert Park track has quite a smooth surface. Before 2007 there existed only a few other places on the Formula 1 calendar with a body of water close to the track. Many of the new tracks, such as [[Valencia Street Circuit|Valencia]], [[Marina Bay Street Circuit|Singapore]] and [[Yas Marina Circuit|Abu Dhabi]] are close to a body of water.
The circuit uses everyday sections of road that circle Albert Park Lake, a small man-altered lake (originally a large lagoon formed as part of the ancient Yarra River course) just south of the Central Business District of Melbourne. The road sections that are used were rebuilt before the inaugural event in 1996 to ensure consistency and smoothness. As a result, compared to other circuits that are held on public roads, the Albert Park track has quite a smooth surface. Before 2007 there existed only a few other places on the Formula 1 calendar with a body of water close to the track. Many of the new tracks, such as [[Valencia Street Circuit|Valencia]], [[Marina Bay Street Circuit|Singapore]] and [[Yas Marina Circuit|Abu Dhabi]] are close to a body of water.


The course is considered to be quite fast and relatively easy to drive, drivers having commented that the consistent placement of corners allows them to easily learn the circuit and achieve competitive times. However, the flat terrain around the lake, coupled with a track design that features few true straights, means that the track is not conducive to overtaking or easy spectating unless in possession of a [[grandstand]] seat.<ref name="F1 Fansite" /><ref>{{cite web|url=http://en.espn.co.uk/australia/motorsport/circuit/1318.html|title=Albert Park|website=ESPN UK|access-date=31 May 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://f1chronicle.com/australian-grand-prix-formula-1-calendar/#Where-is-the-Australian-Grand-Prix-circuit/|title=Where is the Australian Grand Prix Circuit?|date=19 January 2021|website=f1chronicle.com|access-date=19 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170410163501/http://groupandpay.com/10-tips-for-organising-a-group-trip-to-a-formula-1-grand-prix/|archive-date=10 April 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref>
The course is considered to be quite fast and relatively easy to drive, drivers having commented that the consistent placement of corners allows them to easily learn the circuit and achieve competitive times. However, the flat terrain around the lake, coupled with a track design that features few true straights, means that the track is not conducive to overtaking or easy spectating unless in possession of a [[grandstand]] seat.<ref name="F1 Fansite" /><ref>{{cite web|url=http://en.espn.co.uk/australia/motorsport/circuit/1318.html|title=Albert Park|website=ESPN UK|access-date=31 May 2017|archive-date=18 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171018001729/http://en.espn.co.uk/australia/motorsport/circuit/1318.html|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://f1chronicle.com/australian-grand-prix-formula-1-calendar/#Where-is-the-Australian-Grand-Prix-circuit/|title=Where is the Australian Grand Prix Circuit?|date=19 January 2021|website=f1chronicle.com|access-date=19 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170410163501/http://groupandpay.com/10-tips-for-organising-a-group-trip-to-a-formula-1-grand-prix/|archive-date=10 April 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref>


[[File:Albert Lake Park Street Circuit in Melbourne, Australia.svg|thumb|left|Grand Prix Circuit layout between 1996 and 2020]]
Each year, most of the trackside fencing, pedestrian overpasses, grandstands, and other motorsport infrastructure are erected approximately two months before the Grand Prix weekend and removed within 6 weeks after the event. The land around the circuit (including a large aquatic centre, a [[golf course]], a [[Lakeside Stadium]], some restaurants, and rowing boathouses) has restricted access during that entire period. Dissent is still prevalent among nearby residents and users of those other facilities, and some still maintain a silent [[protest]] against the event. Nevertheless, the event is reasonably popular in Melbourne and Australia (with a large European population and a general interest in motorsport). [[Middle Park (stadium)|Middle Park]], the home of [[South Melbourne FC]] was demolished in 1994 due to expansion at [[Albert Park, Victoria|Albert Park]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.austadiums.com/stadiums/special/middle.php|title=Middle Park Stadium|access-date=20 June 2020|website=austadiums.com}}</ref>
Each year, most of the trackside fencing, pedestrian overpasses, grandstands, and other motorsport infrastructure are erected approximately two months before the Grand Prix weekend and removed within 6 weeks after the event. The land around the circuit (including a large aquatic centre, a [[golf course]], a [[Lakeside Stadium]], some restaurants, and rowing boathouses) has restricted access during that entire period. Dissent is still prevalent among nearby residents and users of those other facilities, and some still maintain a silent [[protest]] against the event. Nevertheless, the event is reasonably popular in Melbourne and Australia (with a large European population and a general interest in motorsport). [[Middle Park (stadium)|Middle Park]], the home of [[South Melbourne FC]] was demolished in 1994 due to expansion at [[Albert Park, Victoria|Albert Park]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.austadiums.com/stadiums/special/middle.php|title=Middle Park Stadium|access-date=20 June 2020|website=austadiums.com}}</ref>


On 4 July 2008, F1 announced that more than 300,000 people attended the four-day Melbourne Grand Prix, though actual ticket sales were later disputed by the local media. There has never been a night race at [[Albert Park, Victoria|Albert Park]], although the 2009 and 2010 events both started at 5:00&nbsp;p.m. local time. The current contract for the Grand Prix at the circuit concludes in 2025.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.formula-1-to-race-in-melbourne-until-at-least-the-end-of-2025.24TGOhqL03SOHo34VBaruc.html|title=Australian Grand Prix contract extension: Formula 1 to race in Melbourne until at least the end of 2025 &#124; Formula 1®|website=formula1.com}}</ref>
The Grand Prix regularly draws crowds of over 270,000 spectators, with the 2024 drawing a record crowd of 452,055, including 132,106 on the main raceday.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://raceweek.com.au/news/2024/3/24/new-attendance-record-for-australian-grand-prix-at-albert-park|title=New Attendance Record For Australian Grand Prix At Albert Park|website=Raceweek.com|date=24 March 2024|access-date=24 March 2024|archive-date=3 May 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240503095720/https://raceweek.com.au/news/2024/3/24/new-attendance-record-for-australian-grand-prix-at-albert-park|url-status=dead}}</ref> There has never been a night race at [[Albert Park, Victoria|Albert Park]], although the 2009 and 2010 events both started at 5:00&nbsp;p.m. local time. The current contract for the Grand Prix at the circuit concludes in 2035.<ref>{{cite web |title=Formula 1 to race in Melbourne until 2035 in new agreement |url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.formula-1-to-race-in-melbourne-until-2035-in-new-agreement.7EeElN0gG4wOKY1OJwHV94.html |website=Formula 1 |access-date=16 June 2022}}</ref>


Following the postponement of the Australian Grand Prix in [[2021 Formula One World Championship|2021]], due to the [[COVID-19 pandemic]], the track underwent layout changes, the most notable part was the modification of the turn 9–10 complex from a heavy right-left corner to a fast-sweeping right-left corner into turns 11 and 12. Further modifications included the widening of the pit lane by {{cvt|2|m|yd|abbr=on}} and the reprofiling of turn 13.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Albert Park F1 layout will change for 2021 Australian GP|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/albert-park-layout-2021-australian-gp/5416110/|access-date=2021-02-20|website=motorsport.com|language=en}}</ref> Also, some corners were widened such as turn 1, turn 3, turn 6, turn 7, and turn 15; and it is expected that these modifications will reduce qualifying lap times by as much as five seconds.<ref>{{Cite web|title= New Albert Park layout will be five seconds faster|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/new-albert-park-layout-melbourne-australian-gp/6007938/#gal-6007938-m0-turn-1-modification-53456501|access-date=2021-04-01|website=motorsport.com|language=en}}</ref>
Following the postponement of the Australian Grand Prix in [[2021 Formula One World Championship|2021]], due to the [[COVID-19 pandemic]], the track underwent layout changes, the most notable part was the modification of the turn 9–10 complex from a heavy right-left corner to a fast-sweeping right-left corner into turns 11 and 12. Further modifications included the widening of the pit lane by {{cvt|2|m|yd|abbr=on}} and the reprofiling of turn 13.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Albert Park F1 layout will change for 2021 Australian GP|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/albert-park-layout-2021-australian-gp/5416110/|access-date=2021-02-20|website=motorsport.com|language=en}}</ref> Also, some corners were widened such as turn 1, turn 3, turn 6, turn 7, and turn 15. The 2022 pole position lap time was 2.6 seconds quicker than in 2019.{{cn|date=March 2024}}


==Everyday access==
==Everyday access==
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Known as the Albert Park Circuit,<ref name=Programme-1953>Official Souvenir Programme, XVIIIth Australian Grand Prix, Albert Park Circuit, 21 November 1953, front cover</ref> the original {{Convert|3.125|mi|km|abbr=on}} course hosted a total of six race meetings:<ref name=50-race>''1953'', The official 50-race history of the Australian Grand Prix, 1986, pages 182 to 191</ref>
Known as the Albert Park Circuit,<ref name=Programme-1953>Official Souvenir Programme, XVIIIth Australian Grand Prix, Albert Park Circuit, 21 November 1953, front cover</ref> the original {{Convert|3.125|mi|km|abbr=on}} course hosted a total of six race meetings:<ref name=50-race>''1953'', The official 50-race history of the Australian Grand Prix, 1986, pages 182 to 191</ref>
* 21 November 1953<ref name=Programme-1953/> – featuring the [[1953 Australian Grand Prix]], won by [[Doug Whiteford]]<ref name=50-race/> ([[Talbot-Lago T26C]])
* 21 November 1953<ref name=Programme-1953/> – featuring the [[1953 Australian Grand Prix]], won by [[Doug Whiteford]]<ref name=50-race/> ([[Talbot-Lago T26C]])
* 26 and 27 March 1955<ref>Official Programme, Argus Moomba Motor Car Races, Albert Park Circuit, 26 & 27 March 1955, front cover</ref> – the first Moomba meeting, which involved an alliance with the [[Moomba|Moomba festival]] and [[The Argus (Melbourne)|The Argus]] newspaper,<ref name=50-race/> featuring the [[1955 Moomba TT|Moomba TT]], won by [[Doug Whiteford]] ([[Triumph TR2]])<ref>''Argus Moomba Motor Races'', Australian Motor Sports, April 1955, pages 137 - 142</ref> and the [[1955 Argus Trophy|Argus Trophy]], also won by [[Doug Whiteford]] ([[Talbot-Lago]])<ref>''Thrills for 250,000'', The Argus, Monday, 28 March 1955, page 1</ref>
* 26 and 27 March 1955<ref>Official Programme, Argus Moomba Motor Car Races, Albert Park Circuit, 26 & 27 March 1955, front cover</ref> – the first Moomba meeting, which involved an alliance with the [[Moomba Festival|Moomba festival]] and [[The Argus (Melbourne)|The Argus]] newspaper,<ref name=50-race/> featuring the [[1955 Moomba TT|Moomba TT]], won by [[Doug Whiteford]] ([[Triumph TR2]])<ref>''Argus Moomba Motor Races'', Australian Motor Sports, April 1955, pages 137 - 142</ref> and the [[1955 Argus Trophy|Argus Trophy]], also won by [[Doug Whiteford]] ([[Talbot-Lago]])<ref>''Thrills for 250,000'', The Argus, Monday, 28 March 1955, page 1</ref>
[[File:Albert Park circuit main straight, pictured from above teams' garages in 2022.jpg|thumb|Albert Park circuit main straight, pictured from above teams' garages in 2022]]
* 11 March and 18 March 1956<ref name=Horman>JR Horman, Albert Park, Australian Motor Sports, April 1956, pages 136 to 143</ref> – the second Moomba meeting,<ref name=50-race/> featuring the [[1956 Moomba TT]] won by [[Tony Gaze]] ([[Hersham & Walton Motors|HWM]] [[Jaguar XK6 engine|Jaguar]]), and on the second weekend the [[1956 Argus Trophy]], won by Reg Hunt ([[Maserati 250F]])<ref name=Horman/>
* 11 March and 18 March 1956<ref name=Horman>JR Horman, Albert Park, Australian Motor Sports, April 1956, pages 136 to 143</ref> – the second Moomba meeting,<ref name=50-race/> featuring the [[1956 Moomba TT]] won by [[Tony Gaze]] ([[Hersham & Walton Motors|HWM]] [[Jaguar XK6 engine|Jaguar]]), and on the second weekend the [[1956 Argus Trophy]], won by Reg Hunt ([[Maserati 250F]])<ref name=Horman/>
* 25 November & 2 December 1956<ref name=progcover.com>[http://www.progcovers.com/motor/melbourne.html ''Albert Park'', www.progcovers.com] Retrieved on 10 July 2014</ref> – featuring the [[1956 Australian Tourist Trophy]], won by [[Stirling Moss]] ([[Maserati 300S]]), and on the second weekend the [[1956 Australian Grand Prix]], also won by Stirling Moss ([[Maserati 250F]])<ref>''1956'', The official 50-race history of the Australian Grand Prix, 1986, pages 218 to 226</ref>
* 25 November & 2 December 1956<ref name=progcover.com>[http://www.progcovers.com/motor/melbourne.html ''Albert Park'', www.progcovers.com] Retrieved on 10 July 2014</ref> – featuring the [[1956 Australian Tourist Trophy]], won by [[Stirling Moss]] ([[Maserati 300S]]), and on the second weekend the [[1956 Australian Grand Prix]], also won by Stirling Moss ([[Maserati 250F]])<ref>''1956'', The official 50-race history of the Australian Grand Prix, 1986, pages 218 to 226</ref>
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==Events==
==Events==
[[File:2014 Melbourne Grand Prix (From Eureka Skydeck).jpg|thumb|right|353px|The 2014 Australian Grand Prix, viewed from the [[Eureka Skydeck]]]]


; Current
; Current:
* April: [[Formula One]] ''[[Australian Grand Prix]]'', [[Supercars Championship]] ''[[Melbourne 400]]'', [[S5000 Australian Drivers' Championship]], [[Porsche Carrera Cup Australia Championship]]
* March: [[Formula One]] ''[[Australian Grand Prix]]'', [[FIA Formula 2 Championship]], [[FIA Formula 3 Championship]], [[Supercars Championship]] ''[[Melbourne SuperSprint]]'', [[Porsche Carrera Cup Australia Championship]]


; Former:
; Former:
* [[Aussie Racing Cars]] (2007–2009)

* [[Australian Drivers' Championship]] (1957–1958, 1996)
* [[Australian Drivers' Championship]] (1957–1958, 1996)
* [[Australian Mini Challenge]] (2009–2010)
* [[Australian Formula 4 Championship]] (2019)
* [[Australian Formula 4 Championship]] (2019)
* [[Australian Formula Ford Championship]] (2009–2010, 2012)
* [[Australian Formula Ford Championship]] (2009–2010, 2012)
* [[Australian GT Championship]] (2008–2010, 2016–2019)
* [[Australian GT Championship]] (2008–2010, 2016–2019)
* [[Ferrari Challenge|Ferrari Challenge Asia-Pacific]] (2018–2019)
* [[Ferrari Challenge#Ferrari Challenge Asia-Pacific|Ferrari Challenge Asia-Pacific]] (2018–2019)
* [[Porsche Supercup]] (1999)
* [[Porsche Supercup]] (1999)
* [[S5000 Australian Drivers' Championship]] (2022)
* [[Supercars Championship]] ''[[Supercars Challenge (event)|Supercars Challenge]]'' (1996–2006, 2008–2017)
* [[Supercars Championship]] ''[[Supercars Challenge (event)|Supercars Challenge]]'' (1996–2006, 2008–2017)
* [[V8 Ute Racing Series]] (2005–2007)


==Race lap records==
==Race lap records==
As of 10 April 2022, the official race lap records at the Albert Park Circuit are listed as:<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.natsoft.com.au/results/ |title=Natsoft Race Timing |website=natsoft.com.au |access-date=31 May 2017 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120717081807/http://www.natsoft.com.au/results/ |archive-date=17 July 2012 }}</ref>
As of March 2024, the fastest official race lap records at the Albert Park Circuit are listed as:<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.natsoft.com.au/results/ |title=Natsoft Race Timing |website=natsoft.com.au |access-date=31 May 2017 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120717081807/http://www.natsoft.com.au/results/ |archive-date=17 July 2012 }}</ref><ref name='sa_fl_records'>{{cite web |url=http://www.austin7clubsa.com.au/index.php/lap-records |title=Austin 7 Club (S.A.) Inc. - Lap Records |website=www.austin7clubsa.com.au |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120320091103/http://www.austin7clubsa.com.au/index.php/lap-records |archive-date=20 March 2012 |access-date=18 December 2022}}</ref><ref name='melbourne_fl_comparison'>{{cite web |title=Albert Park Fastest Lap Comparison |url=https://www.driverdb.com/circuits/fastestlaps/albert-park/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230226214432/https://www.driverdb.com/circuits/fastestlaps/albert-park/ |archive-date=26 February 2023 |access-date=26 November 2023 |url-status=dead}}</ref>


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
|-
|-
! Category !! Driver !! Vehicle !! Time !! Date
! Class
! Driver
! Vehicle
! Time
! Date
|-
|-
! colspan=5 | Grand Prix Circuit (2021–present): 5.278&nbsp;km
! colspan=5 | Grand Prix Circuit (2021–present): 5.278&nbsp;km
|-
|-
| [[Formula One]] <!-- Lap records are set during races only. Qualifying laps do not count. -->
| [[Formula One]] || {{flagicon|MCO}} [[Charles Leclerc]] || [[Ferrari SF-24]] || '''1:19.813''' || [[2024 Australian Grand Prix|24 March 2024]]<!-- Lap records are set during races only. Qualifying laps do not count. -->
| {{flagicon|MCO}} [[Charles Leclerc]]
| [[Ferrari F1-75]]
| '''1:20.260'''
| [[2022 Australian Grand Prix|10 April 2022]]
|-
|-
| [[FIA Formula 2 Championship|FIA F2]] || {{flagicon|DNK}} [[Frederik Vesti]] || [[Dallara F2 2018]] || '''1:30.712''' || [[2023 Melbourne Formula 2 round|2 April 2023]]
| [[S5000 Australian Drivers' Championship|S5000]]
| {{flagicon|AUS}} [[Aaron Cameron]]
| [[Onroak Automotive#Models|Ligier JS F3-S5000]]
| '''1:40.3696'''<ref>{{cite web|url=https://motorsportstats.com/results/s5000-series/2022/melbourne-grand-prix/stats |title=2022 Albert Park S5000 Statistics |access-date=8 April 2022}}</ref>
| [[2022 S5000 Australian Drivers' Championship|8 April 2022]]
|-
|-
| [[FIA Formula 3 Championship|FIA F3]] || {{flagicon|SUI}} [[Grégoire Saucy]] || [[Dallara F3 2019]] || '''1:34.405''' || [[2023 Melbourne Formula 3 round|2 April 2023]]
| [[Supercars Championship]]
| {{flagicon|AUS}} [[Scott Pye]]
| [[Holden Commodore (ZB)]]
| '''1:46.006'''<ref>{{cite web|url=https://motorsportstats.com/results/supercars-championship/2022/f1-australian-grand-prix/stats |title=2022 Albert Park Supercars Statistics |access-date=9 April 2022}}</ref>
| [[2022 Supercars Championship|9 April 2022]]
|-
|-
| [[S5000 Australian Drivers' Championship|S5000]] || {{flagicon|AUS}} [[Aaron Cameron]] || [[Ligier JS F3|Ligier JS F3-S5000]] || '''1:40.3696'''<ref>{{cite web |title=2022 Albert Park S5000 Race 1 Statistics |url=https://motorsportstats.com/results/s5000-series/2022/melbourne-grand-prix/stats/race |access-date=8 April 2022}}</ref> || [[2022 S5000 Australian Drivers' Championship|8 April 2022]]
| [[Australian Carrera Cup Championship|Porsche Carrera Cup]]
|-
| {{flagicon|AUS}} Max Vidau
| [[Supercars Championship]] || {{flagicon|AUS}} [[Scott Pye]] || [[Holden Commodore (ZB)]] || '''1:46.006'''<ref>{{cite web |title=2022 Melbourne Supercars Race 3 Statistics |url=https://motorsportstats.com/results/supercars-championship/2022/f1-australian-grand-prix/stats/race-3 |access-date=17 July 2022}}</ref> || [[2022 Melbourne 400|9 April 2022]]
| [[Porsche 911 GT3#992 GT3 Cup (2021–)|Porsche 992 GT3 Cup]]
|-
| '''1:48.6349'''<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.carreracup.com.au/results/ |title=Round 1, 2022: AGP Race 2 |access-date=8 April 2022}}</ref>
| [[Porsche Carrera Cup]] || {{flagicon|AUS}} [[Max Vidau]] || [[Porsche 911 GT3#992 GT3 Cup (2021–)|Porsche 911 (992) GT3 Cup]] || '''1:47.9868'''<ref>{{cite web |title=Porsche Carrera Cup Australia Results Round 1, 2023: Albert Park Race 3 |url=https://www.carreracup.com.au/results/ |access-date=2 April 2023}}</ref> || [[2023 Porsche Carrera Cup Australia|1 April 2023]]
| [[2022 Porsche Carrera Cup Australia|8 April 2022]]
|-
|-
! colspan=5 | Grand Prix Circuit (1996–2020): 5.303&nbsp;km
! colspan=5 | Grand Prix Circuit (1996–2020): 5.303&nbsp;km
|-
|-
| [[Formula One]] <!-- Lap records are set during races only. Qualifying laps do not count. Therefore, times set by Sebastian Vettel in 2011 and Lewis Hamilton in 2016, 2017 and 2018 should not be listed.-->
| [[Formula One]] || {{flagicon|GER}} [[Michael Schumacher]] || [[Ferrari F2004]] || '''1:24.125'''<ref name='melbourne_fl_comparison' /> || [[2004 Australian Grand Prix|7 March 2004]]<!-- Lap records are set during races only. Qualifying laps do not count. Therefore, times set by Sebastian Vettel in 2011 and Lewis Hamilton in 2016, 2017 and 2018 should not be listed.-->
| {{flagicon|GER}} [[Michael Schumacher]]
| [[Ferrari F2004]]
| '''1:24.125'''
| [[2004 Australian Grand Prix|7 March 2004]]
|-
|-
| [[Formula Holden]] || {{flagicon|AUS}} [[Todd Kelly]] || [[Reynard 92D]] || '''1:49.246'''<ref name='sa_fl_records' /> || March 1998
| [[Australian Formula 3|Formula 3]]
| {{flagicon|BRA}} [[Bruno Senna]]
| [[Dallara]] F304 [[Spiess Opel]]
| '''1:50.8640'''
| 3 March 2006
|-
|-
| [[Formula 3]] || {{flagicon|BRA}} [[Bruno Senna]] || [[Dallara F304]] || '''1:50.8640'''<ref name='melbourne_fl_comparison' /><ref>{{cite web |title=2006 Kumho Tyres Australian Formula 3 Championship Round 2: Melbourne, 30th March-1st April - Race 1 |url=http://www.dlg.speedfreaks.org/archive/2006/ausf3.html |access-date=17 July 2022}}</ref> || 30 March 2006
| [[Supercars Championship]]
| {{flagicon|NZL}} [[Scott McLaughlin (racing driver)|Scott McLaughlin]]
| [[Ford Falcon (FG X)|Ford FG X Falcon]]
| '''1:54.6016'''
| [[2018 Melbourne 400|22 March 2018]]
|-
|-
| [[Formula 5000]] || {{flagicon|NZL}} [[Ken Smith (racing driver)|Ken Smith]] || [[Lola T430]] || '''1:54.6975'''<ref name='melbourne_fl_comparison' /><ref>{{cite web |title=2010 Formula 1 Qantas Australian Grand Prix Albert Park Grand Prix Circuit 2010 Jetstar Formula 5000 Tasman Cup Revival - Race 2 |url=http://racing.natsoft.com.au/651838359/object_603526.83L/Result?27 |access-date=31 July 2022 }}{{Dead link|date=July 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> || 28 March 2010
| [[Formula 5000]]
| {{flagicon|NZL}} [[Ken Smith (racing driver)|Ken Smith]]
| [[Lola Cars|Lola]] T430 [[Chevrolet small-block engine|Chevrolet]]
| '''1:54.6975'''
| 28 March 2010
|-
|-
| [[Group GT3|GT3]] || {{flagicon|NZL}} [[Craig Baird]] || [[Mercedes-AMG GT#AMG GT3 (2015–2019)|Mercedes-AMG GT3]] || '''1:54.7311'''<ref name='melbourne_fl_comparison' /><ref>{{cite web |title=2018 Formula 1 Rolex Australian Grand Prix Albert Park Grand Prix Circuit 2018 CAMS Australian GT Championship - Race 1 |url=http://racing.natsoft.com.au/651839384/object_728181.83O/Result?13 |access-date=31 July 2022 }}{{Dead link|date=July 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> || [[2018 Australian GT Championship|22 March 2018]]
| [[Australian GT Championship|Australian GT]]
| {{flagicon|NZL}} [[Craig Baird]]
| [[Mercedes-AMG GT|Mercedes-AMG GT3]]
| '''1:55.1134'''
| 17 March 2016
|-
|-
| [[Group 7 (motorsport)|Group 7]] || {{flagicon|GBR}} [[Michael Lyons (racing driver)|Michael Lyons]] || [[March 717]] || '''1:55.541'''<ref name='melbourne_fl_comparison' /> || 17 March 2013
| [[Australian Carrera Cup Championship|Porsche Carrera Cup]]
| {{flagicon|GBR}} Ben Barker
| [[Porsche 911 GT3#997 GT3|Porsche 997 GT3 Cup]]
| '''1:58.3646'''
| 26 March 2011
|-
|-
| [[Supercars Championship]] || {{flagicon|AUS}} [[Chaz Mostert]] || [[Ford Mustang (sixth generation)#Motorsport|Ford Mustang S550]] || '''1:55.7280'''<ref name='melbourne_fl_comparison' /><ref>{{cite web |title=2019 Melbourne Supercars Race 3 Statistics |url=https://motorsportstats.com/results/supercars-championship/2019/melbourne-400/stats/race-3 |access-date=17 July 2022}}</ref> || [[2019 Melbourne 400|15 March 2019]]
| [[Ferrari Challenge|Ferrari Challenge Asia-Pacific]]
| {{flagicon|USA}} James Weiland
| [[Ferrari 488|Ferrari 488 Challenge]]
| '''1:59.1147'''
| 23 March 2018
|-
|-
| [[Porsche Carrera Cup]] || {{flagicon|AUS}} Cooper Murray || [[Porsche 911 GT3#991 GT3 Cup (2017–2020)|Porsche 911 (991 II) GT3 Cup]] || '''1:58.3294'''<ref name='melbourne_fl_comparison' /><ref>{{cite web |title=2019 Formula 1 Rolex Australian Grand Prix Albert Park Grand Prix Circuit Porsche PAYCE Carrera Cup Australia - Race 3 |url=http://racing.natsoft.com.au/651838359/object_603661.83i/Result?30 |access-date=31 July 2022 }}{{Dead link|date=July 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> || [[2019 Porsche Carrera Cup Australia|16 March 2019]]
| [[TCR Touring Car]]
| {{flagicon|AUS}} [[Garth Tander]]
| [[Audi A3#Motorsport|Audi RS 3 LMS TCR]]
| '''2:04.3614'''
| [[2020 TCR Asia Pacific Cup|14 March 2020]]
|-
|-
| [[Ferrari Challenge]] || {{flagicon|INA}} Renaldi Hutasoit || [[Ferrari 488#Motorsport|Ferrari 488 Challenge]] || '''2:00.0713'''<ref name='melbourne_fl_comparison' /><ref>{{cite web |title=2018 Formula 1 Rolex Australian Grand Prix Albert Park Grand Prix Circuit Ferrari Challenge Trofeo Pirelli - Asia Pacific - Race 2 Classification |url=http://racing.natsoft.com.au/651838359/object_604158.83X/Result?31 |access-date=31 July 2022 }}{{Dead link|date=July 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> || [[Ferrari Challenge#Ferrari Challenge Asia-Pacific|25 March 2018]]
| [[Australian Nations Cup Championship|Nations Cup]]
| {{flagicon|AUS}} [[Paul Stokell]]
| [[Lamborghini Diablo|Lamborghini Diablo GTR]]
| '''2:00.685'''<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.procar.com.au/Stats_PROCAR.pdf |title=Procar Stats |website=procar.com.au |access-date=31 May 2017 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040613140046/http://www.procar.com.au/Stats_PROCAR.pdf |archive-date=13 June 2004 }}</ref>
| 8 March 2003
|-
|-
| [[Australian Nations Cup Championship|Nations Cup]] || {{flagicon|AUS}} [[Paul Stokell]] || [[Lamborghini Diablo#Diablo GTR|Lamborghini Diablo GTR]] || '''2:00.685'''<ref>{{cite web |title=Procar Stats |url=http://www.procar.com.au/Stats_PROCAR.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040613140046/http://www.procar.com.au/Stats_PROCAR.pdf |website=procar.com.au |archive-date=13 June 2004 |access-date=31 May 2017 |url-status=dead}}</ref> || [[2003 Australian Nations Cup Championship|8 March 2003]]
| [[Australian Formula Ford Championship|Formula Ford]]
| {{flagicon|AUS}} [[Chaz Mostert]]
| [[Borland Racing Developments|Spectrum]] 012 [[Ford Duratec engine|Ford]]
| '''2:04.4805'''
| 27 March 2010
|-
|-
| [[Formula 4]] || {{flagicon|AUS}} [[Jayden Ojeda]] || [[Mygale M14-F4]] || '''2:02.1683'''<ref name='melbourne_fl_comparison' /><ref>{{cite web |title=Luis Leeds leads Formula 4 field in Australian GP support races |url=https://formulascout.com/australian-f4-melbourne/48984 |date=17 March 2019 |access-date=17 July 2022}}</ref> || [[2019 Australian Formula 4 Championship|17 March 2019]]
| [[Group A]]
| {{flagicon|AUS}} Terry Lawlor
| [[Nissan Skyline GT-R#R32|Nissan Skyline R32 GT-R]]
| '''2:10.8171'''
| 13 March 2015
|-
|-
| [[Super Touring]] || {{flagicon|NZL}} [[Jim Richards (racing driver)|Jim Richards]] || [[Volvo 850#Motorsport|Volvo 850]] || '''2:03.547'''<ref name='sa_fl_records' /> || [[1997 Australian Super Touring Championship|8 March 1997]]
| [[Aussie Racing Cars]]
| {{flagicon|AUS}} James Small
| Commodore-[[Yamaha FJ1200|Yamaha]]
| '''2:16.0196'''
| 15 March 2008
|-
|-
| [[Formula Ford]] || {{flagicon|AUS}} [[Chaz Mostert]] || [[Borland Racing Developments|Spectrum 012]] || '''2:04.4805'''<ref name='melbourne_fl_comparison' /><ref>{{cite web |title=2010 Formula 1 Qantas Australian Grand Prix Albert Park Grand Prix Circuit 2010 Jetstar Australian Formula Ford Championship - Race 1 |url=http://racing.natsoft.com.au/651838359/object_603526.83L/Result?22 |access-date=31 July 2022 }}{{Dead link|date=July 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> || [[2010 Australian Formula Ford Championship|27 March 2010]]
| [[Group C (Australia)|Group C]]
| {{flagicon|AUS}} Milton Seferis
| [[Holden Commodore (VH)|Holden VH Commodore SS]]
| '''2:18.9539'''
| 14 March 2015
|-
|-
| [[SRO GT4|GT4]] || {{flagicon|AUS}} [[Ryan Simpson (racing driver)|Ryan Simpson]] || [[McLaren 570S#570S GT4 and Sprint|McLaren 570S GT4]] || '''2:05.9644'''<ref name='melbourne_fl_comparison' /><ref>{{cite web |title=2019 Formula 1 Rolex Australian Grand Prix Albert Park Grand Prix Circuit CAMS Australian GT Championship - Race 2 |url=http://racing.natsoft.com.au/651838359/object_603661.83i/Result?18 |access-date=31 July 2022 }}{{Dead link|date=July 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> || [[2019 Australian GT Championship|15 March 2019]]
| [[SuperUtes Series|SuperUtes]]
|-
| {{flagicon|AUS}} Grant Johnson
| [[Group A#Touring car racing|Group A]] || {{flagicon|AUS}} Terry Lawlor || [[Nissan Skyline GT-R#R32|Nissan Skyline R32 GT-R]] || '''2:07.9622'''<ref name='melbourne_fl_comparison' /> || 15 March 2015
| Holden Commodore Ute
|-
| '''2:22.3877'''
| [[Aussie Racing Cars]] || {{flagicon|AUS}} James Small || [[Holden Commodore]]-[[Yamaha FJ1200|Yamaha]] || '''2:16.0196'''<ref name='melbourne_fl_comparison' /><ref>{{cite web |title=2008 Formula 1 ING Australian Grand Prix Albert Park Grand Prix Circuit Aussie Racing Cars - Race 3 |url=http://racing.natsoft.com.au/651839384/object_728755.83a/Result?22 |access-date=31 July 2022 }}{{Dead link|date=July 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> || 15 March 2008
| 1 April 2006
|-
| [[Australian Mini Challenge]] || {{flagicon|AUS}} [[Chris Alajajian]] || [[Mini Hatch#Mini John Cooper Works Challenge (2008–2014)|Mini John Cooper Works Challenge]] || '''2:17.7962'''<ref name='melbourne_fl_comparison' /> || [[2009 Australian Mini Challenge|29 March 2009]]
|-
| [[Group C (Australia)|Group C]] || {{flagicon|AUS}} Milton Seferis || [[Holden Commodore (VH)|Holden VH Commodore SS]] || '''2:18.9539'''<ref>{{cite web |title=2015 Formula 1 Rolex Australian Grand Prix Albert Park Grand Prix Circuit Penrite Oil Heritage Touring Cars - Race 2 |url=http://racing.natsoft.com.au/651839384/object_728294.83l/Result?16 |access-date=31 July 2022 }}{{Dead link|date=July 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> || 14 March 2015
|-
| [[Pickup truck racing]] || {{flagicon|AUS}} Grant Johnson || [[Holden Commodore (VZ)|Holden Commodore Ute]] || '''2:22.3877'''<ref name='melbourne_fl_comparison' /><ref>{{cite web |title=2006 Formula 1 Foster's Australian Grand Prix Albert Park Grand Prix Circuit Cleanevent V8 Utes - Race 3 |url=http://racing.natsoft.com.au/651839384/object_728844.83x/Result?22 |access-date=31 July 2022 }}{{Dead link|date=July 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> || 1 April 2006
|-
|-
! colspan=5 | Original Circuit (1953–1958): 5.027&nbsp;km
! colspan=5 | Original Circuit (1953–1958): 5.027&nbsp;km
|-
|-
| [[Formula Libre]] || {{flagicon|GBR}} [[Stirling Moss]] || [[Cooper T45]] || '''1:50.0''' || [[1958 Melbourne Grand Prix|30 November 1958]]
| [[Formula Libre]]
| {{flagicon|GBR}} [[Stirling Moss]]
| [[Cooper Car Company|Cooper T45]] [[Coventry Climax|Climax]]
| '''1:50.0'''
| [[1958 Melbourne Grand Prix|30 November 1958]]
|-
|-
| [[Sports car racing]] || {{flagicon|GBR}} [[Stirling Moss]] || [[Maserati 300S]] || '''1:55.8'''<ref>{{cite web |title=Australian TT 1956 |url=https://www.racingsportscars.com/race/Albert_Park-1956-11-25-4809.html |access-date=18 June 2022}}</ref> || [[1956 Australian Tourist Trophy|25 November 1956]]
| [[Sports car racing]]
| {{flagicon|GBR}} [[Stirling Moss]]
| [[Maserati 300S]]
| '''1:55.8'''<ref name=AMS>Australian Tourist Trophy, Australian Motor Sports, January 1957, pages 18 to 20</ref>
| [[1956 Australian Tourist Trophy|25 November 1956]]
|-
|-
|}
|}


==See also==
==See also==
*[[Adelaide Street Circuit]]
* [[Adelaide Street Circuit]]


==References==
==References==
Line 248: Line 185:
==External links==
==External links==
{{Commons category}}
{{Commons category}}
*[http://www.formula1.com/races/in_detail/australia_864/ Albert Park at Official Formula 1 website]
*[http://www.formula1.com/races/in_detail/australia_864/ Albert Park at Official Formula 1 website] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120325113529/http://www.formula1.com/races/in_detail/australia_864/ |date=25 March 2012 }}
*[http://www.f1mix.com/circuits/albert-park.asp Melbourne Grand Prix Circuit Guide]
*[http://www.f1mix.com/circuits/albert-park.asp Melbourne Grand Prix Circuit Guide]
*[https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=zAwYScNYWOgU.kH5VtuiZLUz4 Albert Park Melbourne Grand Prix Circuit on Google Maps (Current Formula 1 Tracks)]
*[https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=zAwYScNYWOgU.kH5VtuiZLUz4 Albert Park Melbourne Grand Prix Circuit on Google Maps (Current Formula 1 Tracks)]


{{Australian Grand Prix}}
{{Navboxes
|list1 =
{{Formula One circuits}}
{{Formula One circuits}}
{{V8 Supercar tracks}}
{{V8 Supercar tracks}}
{{S5000 circuits}}
{{S5000 circuits}}
{{Formula 2 circuits}}
{{FIA Formula 3 circuits}}
{{Australian GT circuits}}
{{Porsche Supercup circuits}}
{{Porsche Supercup circuits}}
}}
{{Melbourne landmarks}}
{{Melbourne landmarks}}


[[Category:Motorsport venues in Victoria (Australia)]]
[[Category:Motorsport venues in Victoria (state)]]
[[Category:Formula One circuits]]
[[Category:Formula One circuits|Melbourne]]
[[Category:Australian Grand Prix]]
[[Category:Australian Grand Prix]]
[[Category:Sports venues in Melbourne]]
[[Category:Sports venues in Melbourne]]
[[Category:Streets in Melbourne]]
[[Category:Streets in Melbourne]]
[[Category:Supercars Championship circuits]]
[[Category:Supercars Championship circuits]]
[[Category:Sports venues in Victoria (Australia)]]
[[Category:1953 establishments in Australia]]
[[Category:1953 establishments in Australia]]
[[Category:Sport in the City of Port Phillip]]
[[Category:Sports venues completed in 1953]]

Latest revision as of 21:25, 23 November 2024

Albert Park Circuit
Albert Park Circuit (2021–present)
Map
Interactive track map
LocationAlbert Park, Melbourne, Victoria (Australia)
Time zoneAEST (UTC+10:00)
AEDT (UTC+11:00 DST)
Coordinates37°50′59″S 144°58′6″E / 37.84972°S 144.96833°E / -37.84972; 144.96833
Capacity~125,000 (44,000 seating)[1][2]
FIA Grade1
Opened20 November 1953; 71 years ago (1953-11-20)
Re-opened: 7 March 1996; 28 years ago (1996-03-07)
Closed30 November 1958; 66 years ago (1958-11-30)
Major eventsCurrent:
Formula One
Australian Grand Prix (1996–2019, 2022–present)
Former:
Australian Drivers' Championship (1957–1958)
Grand Prix Circuit (2021–present)
SurfaceAsphalt
Length5.278 km (3.280 miles)
Turns14
Race lap record1:19.813 (Monaco Charles Leclerc, Ferrari SF-24, 2024, F1)
Grand Prix Circuit (1996–2020)
SurfaceAsphalt
Length5.303 km (3.296 miles)
Turns16
Race lap record1:24.125 (Germany Michael Schumacher, Ferrari F2004, 2004, F1)
Original Circuit (1953–1958)
Length5.027 km (3.124 miles)
Turns9
Race lap record1:50.0 (United Kingdom Stirling Moss, Cooper T45, 1958, Formula Libre)

The Albert Park Circuit is a motorsport street circuit around Albert Park Lake in the suburb of Albert Park in Melbourne. It is used annually as a circuit for the Formula One Australian Grand Prix, the supporting Supercars Championship Melbourne SuperSprint and other associated support races. The circuit has an FIA Grade 1 licence.[3]

Although the entire track consists of normally public roads, each sector includes medium to high-speed characteristics more commonly associated with dedicated racetracks facilitated by grass and gravel run-off safety zones that are reconstructed annually. However, the circuit also has characteristics of a street circuit's enclosed nature due to concrete barriers annually built along the Lakeside Drive curve, in particular, where run-off is not available due to the proximity of the lake shore.[4]

Design

[edit]
A satellite view of the circuit just before race weekend 2018

The circuit uses everyday sections of road that circle Albert Park Lake, a small man-altered lake (originally a large lagoon formed as part of the ancient Yarra River course) just south of the Central Business District of Melbourne. The road sections that are used were rebuilt before the inaugural event in 1996 to ensure consistency and smoothness. As a result, compared to other circuits that are held on public roads, the Albert Park track has quite a smooth surface. Before 2007 there existed only a few other places on the Formula 1 calendar with a body of water close to the track. Many of the new tracks, such as Valencia, Singapore and Abu Dhabi are close to a body of water.

The course is considered to be quite fast and relatively easy to drive, drivers having commented that the consistent placement of corners allows them to easily learn the circuit and achieve competitive times. However, the flat terrain around the lake, coupled with a track design that features few true straights, means that the track is not conducive to overtaking or easy spectating unless in possession of a grandstand seat.[4][5][6]

Grand Prix Circuit layout between 1996 and 2020

Each year, most of the trackside fencing, pedestrian overpasses, grandstands, and other motorsport infrastructure are erected approximately two months before the Grand Prix weekend and removed within 6 weeks after the event. The land around the circuit (including a large aquatic centre, a golf course, a Lakeside Stadium, some restaurants, and rowing boathouses) has restricted access during that entire period. Dissent is still prevalent among nearby residents and users of those other facilities, and some still maintain a silent protest against the event. Nevertheless, the event is reasonably popular in Melbourne and Australia (with a large European population and a general interest in motorsport). Middle Park, the home of South Melbourne FC was demolished in 1994 due to expansion at Albert Park.[7]

The Grand Prix regularly draws crowds of over 270,000 spectators, with the 2024 drawing a record crowd of 452,055, including 132,106 on the main raceday.[8] There has never been a night race at Albert Park, although the 2009 and 2010 events both started at 5:00 p.m. local time. The current contract for the Grand Prix at the circuit concludes in 2035.[9]

Following the postponement of the Australian Grand Prix in 2021, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the track underwent layout changes, the most notable part was the modification of the turn 9–10 complex from a heavy right-left corner to a fast-sweeping right-left corner into turns 11 and 12. Further modifications included the widening of the pit lane by 2 m (2.2 yd) and the reprofiling of turn 13.[10] Also, some corners were widened such as turn 1, turn 3, turn 6, turn 7, and turn 15. The 2022 pole position lap time was 2.6 seconds quicker than in 2019.[citation needed]

Everyday access

[edit]
The Melbourne Grand Prix Circuit old layout in December 2017, while open to the public

During the nine months of the year when the track is not required for Grand Prix preparation or the race weekend, most of the track can be driven by ordinary street-registered vehicles either clockwise or anti-clockwise.

Only the sections between turns 3, 4, and 5, then 5 and 6, differ significantly from the race track configuration. Turn 4 is replaced by a car park access road running directly from turns 3 to 5. Between turns 5 and 6, the road is blocked. It is possible to drive from turn 5 on to Albert Road and back on to the track at turn 7 though three sets of lights control the flow of this option. The only set of lights on the actual track is halfway between turns 12 and 13, where drivers using Queens Road are catered for. The chicanes at turns 11 and 12 are considerably more open than that used in the Grand Prix, using the escape roads. Turn 9 is also a car park and traffic is directed down another escape road.

The speed limit is generally 40 km/h (25 mph), while some short sections have a speed limit of 50 km/h (31 mph), which is still slower than an F1 car under pit lane speed restrictions. The back of the track, turns 7 to 13 inclusive, is known as Lakeside Drive. Double lines separate the two-way traffic along most of Lakeside Drive with short road islands approximately every 50 m (55 yd) which means overtaking is illegal here. Black Swans live and breed in Albert Park, and frequently cross the road causing traffic delays, sometimes with up to five cygnets (young swans).

Approximately 80% of the track edge is lined with short parkland-style chain-linked fencing leaving normal drivers less room for error than F1 drivers have during race weekend. There is however substantial shoulder room between the outside of each lane and the fencing, which is used as parking along Aughtie Drive during the other nine months.

History

[edit]

Albert Park Circuit (1953–1958)

[edit]

Prior to World War II, attempts were made to use Albert Park for motor racing. The first was in 1934 but failed due to opposition, and a second attempt for a motorcycle race in 1937 similarly failed. Finally in 1953 the Light Car Club of Australia were able to secure use of the circuit for that year's Australian Grand Prix.[11]

Start of the 1953 Australian Grand Prix.

Albert Park is the only venue to host the Australian Grand Prix in both World Championship and non-World Championship formats with an earlier configuration of the current circuit used for the race on two occasions during the 1950s. During this time racing was conducted in an anti-clockwise direction[12] as opposed to the current circuit which runs clockwise.

Known as the Albert Park Circuit,[13] the original 3.125 mi (5.029 km) course hosted a total of six race meetings:[14]

Albert Park circuit main straight, pictured from above teams' garages in 2022

The November 1958 meeting was the last on the original incarnation of the circuit, as it closed shortly after.[11]

Events

[edit]
The 2014 Australian Grand Prix, viewed from the Eureka Skydeck
Current
Former

Race lap records

[edit]

As of March 2024, the fastest official race lap records at the Albert Park Circuit are listed as:[28][29][30]

Category Driver Vehicle Time Date
Grand Prix Circuit (2021–present): 5.278 km
Formula One Monaco Charles Leclerc Ferrari SF-24 1:19.813 24 March 2024
FIA F2 Denmark Frederik Vesti Dallara F2 2018 1:30.712 2 April 2023
FIA F3 Switzerland Grégoire Saucy Dallara F3 2019 1:34.405 2 April 2023
S5000 Australia Aaron Cameron Ligier JS F3-S5000 1:40.3696[31] 8 April 2022
Supercars Championship Australia Scott Pye Holden Commodore (ZB) 1:46.006[32] 9 April 2022
Porsche Carrera Cup Australia Max Vidau Porsche 911 (992) GT3 Cup 1:47.9868[33] 1 April 2023
Grand Prix Circuit (1996–2020): 5.303 km
Formula One Germany Michael Schumacher Ferrari F2004 1:24.125[30] 7 March 2004
Formula Holden Australia Todd Kelly Reynard 92D 1:49.246[29] March 1998
Formula 3 Brazil Bruno Senna Dallara F304 1:50.8640[30][34] 30 March 2006
Formula 5000 New Zealand Ken Smith Lola T430 1:54.6975[30][35] 28 March 2010
GT3 New Zealand Craig Baird Mercedes-AMG GT3 1:54.7311[30][36] 22 March 2018
Group 7 United Kingdom Michael Lyons March 717 1:55.541[30] 17 March 2013
Supercars Championship Australia Chaz Mostert Ford Mustang S550 1:55.7280[30][37] 15 March 2019
Porsche Carrera Cup Australia Cooper Murray Porsche 911 (991 II) GT3 Cup 1:58.3294[30][38] 16 March 2019
Ferrari Challenge Indonesia Renaldi Hutasoit Ferrari 488 Challenge 2:00.0713[30][39] 25 March 2018
Nations Cup Australia Paul Stokell Lamborghini Diablo GTR 2:00.685[40] 8 March 2003
Formula 4 Australia Jayden Ojeda Mygale M14-F4 2:02.1683[30][41] 17 March 2019
Super Touring New Zealand Jim Richards Volvo 850 2:03.547[29] 8 March 1997
Formula Ford Australia Chaz Mostert Spectrum 012 2:04.4805[30][42] 27 March 2010
GT4 Australia Ryan Simpson McLaren 570S GT4 2:05.9644[30][43] 15 March 2019
Group A Australia Terry Lawlor Nissan Skyline R32 GT-R 2:07.9622[30] 15 March 2015
Aussie Racing Cars Australia James Small Holden Commodore-Yamaha 2:16.0196[30][44] 15 March 2008
Australian Mini Challenge Australia Chris Alajajian Mini John Cooper Works Challenge 2:17.7962[30] 29 March 2009
Group C Australia Milton Seferis Holden VH Commodore SS 2:18.9539[45] 14 March 2015
Pickup truck racing Australia Grant Johnson Holden Commodore Ute 2:22.3877[30][46] 1 April 2006
Original Circuit (1953–1958): 5.027 km
Formula Libre United Kingdom Stirling Moss Cooper T45 1:50.0 30 November 1958
Sports car racing United Kingdom Stirling Moss Maserati 300S 1:55.8[47] 25 November 1956

See also

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References

[edit]
  1. ^ Andrew Rickart (3 April 2022). "Capacity crowd for Australian Grand Prix as ticket sell out". Highway F1. Archived from the original on 26 February 2022. Retrieved 9 April 2022. Capacity for the venue is between 120,000 - 130,000, with organisers now expecting a crowd in excess of 100,000 on Saturday as well for Formula One qualifying.
  2. ^ "Record F1 crowd prompts Australian GP seating rethink". Motorsport.com. 28 November 2022. Retrieved 28 November 2022.
  3. ^ "List of FIA Licensed Circuits" (PDF). FIA. 6 February 2015. Archived (PDF) from the original on 28 May 2015. Retrieved 28 May 2015.
  4. ^ a b "The Albert Park Circuit". The F1 Fansite. 14 June 2012. Retrieved 20 June 2020.
  5. ^ "Albert Park". ESPN UK. Archived from the original on 18 October 2017. Retrieved 31 May 2017.
  6. ^ "Where is the Australian Grand Prix Circuit?". f1chronicle.com. 19 January 2021. Archived from the original on 10 April 2017. Retrieved 19 January 2021.
  7. ^ "Middle Park Stadium". austadiums.com. Retrieved 20 June 2020.
  8. ^ "New Attendance Record For Australian Grand Prix At Albert Park". Raceweek.com. 24 March 2024. Archived from the original on 3 May 2024. Retrieved 24 March 2024.
  9. ^ "Formula 1 to race in Melbourne until 2035 in new agreement". Formula 1. Retrieved 16 June 2022.
  10. ^ "Albert Park F1 layout will change for 2021 Australian GP". motorsport.com. Retrieved 20 February 2021.
  11. ^ a b Walker, Terry (1995). Fast Tracks. Sydney: Turton & Armstrong. p. 10. ISBN 0908031556.
  12. ^ Stuart Sykes, It was - and still is - a great place for a race, Racing into History, A look back at the 1953 Australian Grand Prix at Albert Park, 2013, page3 & 4
  13. ^ a b Official Souvenir Programme, XVIIIth Australian Grand Prix, Albert Park Circuit, 21 November 1953, front cover
  14. ^ a b c d e 1953, The official 50-race history of the Australian Grand Prix, 1986, pages 182 to 191
  15. ^ Official Programme, Argus Moomba Motor Car Races, Albert Park Circuit, 26 & 27 March 1955, front cover
  16. ^ Argus Moomba Motor Races, Australian Motor Sports, April 1955, pages 137 - 142
  17. ^ Thrills for 250,000, The Argus, Monday, 28 March 1955, page 1
  18. ^ a b JR Horman, Albert Park, Australian Motor Sports, April 1956, pages 136 to 143
  19. ^ Albert Park, www.progcovers.com Retrieved on 10 July 2014
  20. ^ 1956, The official 50-race history of the Australian Grand Prix, 1986, pages 218 to 226
  21. ^ a b Programme, Victorian Tourist Trophy, First Day: 17th March 1957
  22. ^ AC Russell, Albert Park - Victorian Tourist Trophy Meeting, Australian Motors Sports, page 131
  23. ^ Victorian Trophy, Australian Motor Sport, May 1957, pages 174 to 176
  24. ^ John B Blanden, Historic Racing Cars in Australia, 1979, pages 146 & 147
  25. ^ Graham Howard, Lex Davison – larger than life, page 117
  26. ^ Official Programme, 1958 Melbourne Grand Prix / Victorian Tourist Trophy, Albert Park Circuit, page 3
  27. ^ a b David McKay, Quick money for Moss, Modern Motor, February 1959, pages 35, 36, 37 & 76
  28. ^ "Natsoft Race Timing". natsoft.com.au. Archived from the original on 17 July 2012. Retrieved 31 May 2017.
  29. ^ a b c "Austin 7 Club (S.A.) Inc. - Lap Records". www.austin7clubsa.com.au. Archived from the original on 20 March 2012. Retrieved 18 December 2022.
  30. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p "Albert Park Fastest Lap Comparison". Archived from the original on 26 February 2023. Retrieved 26 November 2023.
  31. ^ "2022 Albert Park S5000 Race 1 Statistics". Retrieved 8 April 2022.
  32. ^ "2022 Melbourne Supercars Race 3 Statistics". Retrieved 17 July 2022.
  33. ^ "Porsche Carrera Cup Australia Results Round 1, 2023: Albert Park Race 3". Retrieved 2 April 2023.
  34. ^ "2006 Kumho Tyres Australian Formula 3 Championship Round 2: Melbourne, 30th March-1st April - Race 1". Retrieved 17 July 2022.
  35. ^ "2010 Formula 1 Qantas Australian Grand Prix Albert Park Grand Prix Circuit 2010 Jetstar Formula 5000 Tasman Cup Revival - Race 2". Retrieved 31 July 2022.[permanent dead link‍]
  36. ^ "2018 Formula 1 Rolex Australian Grand Prix Albert Park Grand Prix Circuit 2018 CAMS Australian GT Championship - Race 1". Retrieved 31 July 2022.[permanent dead link‍]
  37. ^ "2019 Melbourne Supercars Race 3 Statistics". Retrieved 17 July 2022.
  38. ^ "2019 Formula 1 Rolex Australian Grand Prix Albert Park Grand Prix Circuit Porsche PAYCE Carrera Cup Australia - Race 3". Retrieved 31 July 2022.[permanent dead link‍]
  39. ^ "2018 Formula 1 Rolex Australian Grand Prix Albert Park Grand Prix Circuit Ferrari Challenge Trofeo Pirelli - Asia Pacific - Race 2 Classification". Retrieved 31 July 2022.[permanent dead link‍]
  40. ^ "Procar Stats" (PDF). procar.com.au. Archived from the original (PDF) on 13 June 2004. Retrieved 31 May 2017.
  41. ^ "Luis Leeds leads Formula 4 field in Australian GP support races". 17 March 2019. Retrieved 17 July 2022.
  42. ^ "2010 Formula 1 Qantas Australian Grand Prix Albert Park Grand Prix Circuit 2010 Jetstar Australian Formula Ford Championship - Race 1". Retrieved 31 July 2022.[permanent dead link‍]
  43. ^ "2019 Formula 1 Rolex Australian Grand Prix Albert Park Grand Prix Circuit CAMS Australian GT Championship - Race 2". Retrieved 31 July 2022.[permanent dead link‍]
  44. ^ "2008 Formula 1 ING Australian Grand Prix Albert Park Grand Prix Circuit Aussie Racing Cars - Race 3". Retrieved 31 July 2022.[permanent dead link‍]
  45. ^ "2015 Formula 1 Rolex Australian Grand Prix Albert Park Grand Prix Circuit Penrite Oil Heritage Touring Cars - Race 2". Retrieved 31 July 2022.[permanent dead link‍]
  46. ^ "2006 Formula 1 Foster's Australian Grand Prix Albert Park Grand Prix Circuit Cleanevent V8 Utes - Race 3". Retrieved 31 July 2022.[permanent dead link‍]
  47. ^ "Australian TT 1956". Retrieved 18 June 2022.
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