Albert Park Circuit: Difference between revisions
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|Closed = {{Start date and age|df=yes|1958|11|30}} |
|Closed = {{Start date and age|df=yes|1958|11|30}} |
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|Events = '''Current:'''<br />'''[[Formula One]]'''<br />''[[Australian Grand Prix]]'' (1996–2019, 2022–present)<br />'''Former:'''<br />[[Australian Drivers' Championship]] (1957–1958) |
|Events = '''Current:'''<br />'''[[Formula One]]'''<br />''[[Australian Grand Prix]]'' (1996–2019, 2022–present)<br />'''Former:'''<br />[[Australian Drivers' Championship]] (1957–1958) |
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|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.}}</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> |
|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> |
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|Layout1 = Grand Prix Circuit (2021–present) |
|Layout1 = Grand Prix Circuit (2021–present) |
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|Length_km = 5.278 |
|Length_km = 5.278 |
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|Length_mi = 3.280 |
|Length_mi = 3.280 |
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|Turns = 14 |
|Turns = 14 |
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|Record_time = 1:19. |
|Record_time = 1:19.813 |
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|Record_driver = {{flagicon| |
|Record_driver = {{flagicon|MCO}} [[Charles Leclerc]] |
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|Record_car = [[ |
|Record_car = [[Ferrari SF-24]] |
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|Record_year = [[2024 Australian Grand Prix|2024]] |
|Record_year = [[2024 Australian Grand Prix|2024]] |
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|Record_class = [[Formula One|F1]] |
|Record_class = [[Formula One|F1]] |
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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. |
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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> |
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[[File:Albert Lake Park Street Circuit in Melbourne, Australia.svg|thumb|left|Grand Prix Circuit layout between 1996 and 2020]] |
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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> |
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The Grand Prix regularly draws crowds of over 270,000 spectators, with the |
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 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> |
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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 |
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}} |
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==Everyday access== |
==Everyday access== |
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==Race lap records== |
==Race lap records== |
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As of |
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> |
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{| class="wikitable" |
{| class="wikitable" |
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! colspan=5 | Grand Prix Circuit (2021–present): 5.278 km |
! colspan=5 | Grand Prix Circuit (2021–present): 5.278 km |
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| [[Formula One]] || {{flagicon| |
| [[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. --> |
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| [[FIA Formula 2 Championship|FIA F2]] || {{flagicon|DNK}} [[Frederik Vesti]] || [[Dallara F2 2018]] || '''1:30.712''' || [[2023 Melbourne Formula 2 round|2 April 2023]] |
| [[FIA Formula 2 Championship|FIA F2]] || {{flagicon|DNK}} [[Frederik Vesti]] || [[Dallara F2 2018]] || '''1:30.712''' || [[2023 Melbourne Formula 2 round|2 April 2023]] |
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| [[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 |
| [[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 |
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| [[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}}</ref> || 28 March 2010 |
| [[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 |
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| [[Group GT3|GT3]] || {{flagicon|NZL}} [[Craig Baird]] || [[Mercedes-AMG GT# |
| [[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]] |
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| [[Group 7 ( |
| [[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 |
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| [[Supercars Championship]] || {{flagicon|AUS}} [[Chaz Mostert]] || [[Ford Mustang (sixth generation)|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]] |
| [[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]] |
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| [[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}}</ref> || [[2019 Porsche Carrera Cup Australia|16 March 2019]] |
| [[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]] |
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| [[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}}</ref> || [[Ferrari Challenge#Ferrari Challenge Asia-Pacific|25 March 2018]] |
| [[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]] |
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| [[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 |
| [[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]] |
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| [[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 |
| [[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]] |
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| [[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]] |
| [[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]] |
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| [[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}}</ref> || [[2010 Australian Formula Ford Championship|27 March 2010]] |
| [[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]] |
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| [[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}}</ref> || [[2019 Australian GT Championship|15 March 2019]] |
| [[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]] |
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| [[Group A#Touring |
| [[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 |
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| [[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}}</ref> || 15 March 2008 |
| [[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 |
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| [[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]] |
| [[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]] |
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| [[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}}</ref> || 14 March 2015 |
| [[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}}</ref> || 1 April 2006 |
| [[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 |
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|- |
|- |
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! colspan=5 | Original Circuit (1953–1958): 5.027 km |
! colspan=5 | Original Circuit (1953–1958): 5.027 km |
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==See also== |
==See also== |
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*[[Adelaide Street Circuit]] |
* [[Adelaide Street Circuit]] |
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==References== |
==References== |
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==External links== |
==External links== |
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{{Commons category}} |
{{Commons category}} |
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*[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 }} |
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*[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)] |
Latest revision as of 21:25, 23 November 2024
Location | Albert Park, Melbourne, Victoria (Australia) |
---|---|
Time zone | AEST (UTC+10:00) AEDT (UTC+11:00 DST) |
Coordinates | 37°50′59″S 144°58′6″E / 37.84972°S 144.96833°E |
Capacity | ~125,000 (44,000 seating)[1][2] |
FIA Grade | 1 |
Opened | 20 November 1953 Re-opened: 7 March 1996 |
Closed | 30 November 1958 |
Major events | Current: Formula One Australian Grand Prix (1996–2019, 2022–present) Former: Australian Drivers' Championship (1957–1958) |
Grand Prix Circuit (2021–present) | |
Surface | Asphalt |
Length | 5.278 km (3.280 miles) |
Turns | 14 |
Race lap record | 1:19.813 ( Charles Leclerc, Ferrari SF-24, 2024, F1) |
Grand Prix Circuit (1996–2020) | |
Surface | Asphalt |
Length | 5.303 km (3.296 miles) |
Turns | 16 |
Race lap record | 1:24.125 ( Michael Schumacher, Ferrari F2004, 2004, F1) |
Original Circuit (1953–1958) | |
Length | 5.027 km (3.124 miles) |
Turns | 9 |
Race lap record | 1:50.0 ( 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]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]
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]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]
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]
- 21 November 1953[13] – featuring the 1953 Australian Grand Prix, won by Doug Whiteford[14] (Talbot-Lago T26C)
- 26 and 27 March 1955[15] – the first Moomba meeting, which involved an alliance with the Moomba festival and The Argus newspaper,[14] featuring the Moomba TT, won by Doug Whiteford (Triumph TR2)[16] and the Argus Trophy, also won by Doug Whiteford (Talbot-Lago)[17]
- 11 March and 18 March 1956[18] – the second Moomba meeting,[14] featuring the 1956 Moomba TT won by Tony Gaze (HWM Jaguar), and on the second weekend the 1956 Argus Trophy, won by Reg Hunt (Maserati 250F)[18]
- 25 November & 2 December 1956[19] – 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)[20]
- 17[21] and 24 March 1957 – the third Moomba meeting[14] – featuring the Victorian Tourist Trophy[21] won by Doug Whiteford (Maserati 300S),[22] and the Victorian Trophy,[23] won by Lex Davison (Ferrari 500).[24] The Victorian Trophy was retrospectively designated as the second round of the 1957 Australian Drivers' Championship[25]
- 23 and 30 November 1958[26] – featuring the 1958 Victorian Tourist Trophy, won by Doug Whiteford (Maserati 300S),[27] and, on the second weekend, the 1958 Melbourne Grand Prix, (a round of the 1958 Australian Drivers' Championship), won by Stirling Moss (Cooper Coventry Climax)[27]
The November 1958 meeting was the last on the original incarnation of the circuit, as it closed shortly after.[11]
Events
[edit]- Current
- March: Formula One Australian Grand Prix, FIA Formula 2 Championship, FIA Formula 3 Championship, Supercars Championship Melbourne SuperSprint, Porsche Carrera Cup Australia Championship
- Former
- Aussie Racing Cars (2007–2009)
- Australian Drivers' Championship (1957–1958, 1996)
- Australian Mini Challenge (2009–2010)
- Australian Formula 4 Championship (2019)
- Australian Formula Ford Championship (2009–2010, 2012)
- Australian GT Championship (2008–2010, 2016–2019)
- Ferrari Challenge Asia-Pacific (2018–2019)
- Porsche Supercup (1999)
- S5000 Australian Drivers' Championship (2022)
- Supercars Championship Supercars Challenge (1996–2006, 2008–2017)
- V8 Ute Racing Series (2005–2007)
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]
See also
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ 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.
- ^ "Record F1 crowd prompts Australian GP seating rethink". Motorsport.com. 28 November 2022. Retrieved 28 November 2022.
- ^ "List of FIA Licensed Circuits" (PDF). FIA. 6 February 2015. Archived (PDF) from the original on 28 May 2015. Retrieved 28 May 2015.
- ^ a b "The Albert Park Circuit". The F1 Fansite. 14 June 2012. Retrieved 20 June 2020.
- ^ "Albert Park". ESPN UK. Archived from the original on 18 October 2017. Retrieved 31 May 2017.
- ^ "Where is the Australian Grand Prix Circuit?". f1chronicle.com. 19 January 2021. Archived from the original on 10 April 2017. Retrieved 19 January 2021.
- ^ "Middle Park Stadium". austadiums.com. Retrieved 20 June 2020.
- ^ "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.
- ^ "Formula 1 to race in Melbourne until 2035 in new agreement". Formula 1. Retrieved 16 June 2022.
- ^ "Albert Park F1 layout will change for 2021 Australian GP". motorsport.com. Retrieved 20 February 2021.
- ^ a b Walker, Terry (1995). Fast Tracks. Sydney: Turton & Armstrong. p. 10. ISBN 0908031556.
- ^ 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
- ^ a b Official Souvenir Programme, XVIIIth Australian Grand Prix, Albert Park Circuit, 21 November 1953, front cover
- ^ a b c d e 1953, The official 50-race history of the Australian Grand Prix, 1986, pages 182 to 191
- ^ Official Programme, Argus Moomba Motor Car Races, Albert Park Circuit, 26 & 27 March 1955, front cover
- ^ Argus Moomba Motor Races, Australian Motor Sports, April 1955, pages 137 - 142
- ^ Thrills for 250,000, The Argus, Monday, 28 March 1955, page 1
- ^ a b JR Horman, Albert Park, Australian Motor Sports, April 1956, pages 136 to 143
- ^ Albert Park, www.progcovers.com Retrieved on 10 July 2014
- ^ 1956, The official 50-race history of the Australian Grand Prix, 1986, pages 218 to 226
- ^ a b Programme, Victorian Tourist Trophy, First Day: 17th March 1957
- ^ AC Russell, Albert Park - Victorian Tourist Trophy Meeting, Australian Motors Sports, page 131
- ^ Victorian Trophy, Australian Motor Sport, May 1957, pages 174 to 176
- ^ John B Blanden, Historic Racing Cars in Australia, 1979, pages 146 & 147
- ^ Graham Howard, Lex Davison – larger than life, page 117
- ^ Official Programme, 1958 Melbourne Grand Prix / Victorian Tourist Trophy, Albert Park Circuit, page 3
- ^ a b David McKay, Quick money for Moss, Modern Motor, February 1959, pages 35, 36, 37 & 76
- ^ "Natsoft Race Timing". natsoft.com.au. Archived from the original on 17 July 2012. Retrieved 31 May 2017.
- ^ 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.
- ^ 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.
- ^ "2022 Albert Park S5000 Race 1 Statistics". Retrieved 8 April 2022.
- ^ "2022 Melbourne Supercars Race 3 Statistics". Retrieved 17 July 2022.
- ^ "Porsche Carrera Cup Australia Results Round 1, 2023: Albert Park Race 3". Retrieved 2 April 2023.
- ^ "2006 Kumho Tyres Australian Formula 3 Championship Round 2: Melbourne, 30th March-1st April - Race 1". Retrieved 17 July 2022.
- ^ "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 ]
- ^ "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 ]
- ^ "2019 Melbourne Supercars Race 3 Statistics". Retrieved 17 July 2022.
- ^ "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 ]
- ^ "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 ]
- ^ "Procar Stats" (PDF). procar.com.au. Archived from the original (PDF) on 13 June 2004. Retrieved 31 May 2017.
- ^ "Luis Leeds leads Formula 4 field in Australian GP support races". 17 March 2019. Retrieved 17 July 2022.
- ^ "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 ]
- ^ "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 ]
- ^ "2008 Formula 1 ING Australian Grand Prix Albert Park Grand Prix Circuit Aussie Racing Cars - Race 3". Retrieved 31 July 2022.[permanent dead link ]
- ^ "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 ]
- ^ "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 ]
- ^ "Australian TT 1956". Retrieved 18 June 2022.