After the Bahrain pre-season testing session, Formula 1 heads back to Melbourne for the Australian Grand Prix, with sessions scheduled at night-time hours. They will cater to early risers or those coming home late.
Melbourne Circuit Analysis
The Melbourne circuit, officially known as Albert Park Circuit, is one of the most iconic tracks on the F1 calendar. Located around the lake in Albert Park, near the city center, it is a semi-permanent circuit, meaning it is open to regular traffic for most of the year and adapted for the Grand Prix.
At 5.278 km with 14 corners, it is a fast and flowing track but not always easy to master. The asphalt, being low-abrasion, offers little grip in the early days of the weekend but improves as more cars run on it. The DRS zones (usually three) aid overtaking, but it remains a circuit where passing is not straightforward.
Over the years, Melbourne has delivered unpredictable races, often influenced by weather or first-lap incidents. The track demands a fine balance between top speed and braking stability, particularly in challenging sections like the high-speed chicane at Turns 9-10 or the tricky braking zone at Turn 1.
After several years, the Australian GP returns as the opening race of the F1 calendar, making it an unmissable event.
Australian GP Session Times
The time difference will require a sacrifice from European viewers, as all sessions will take place either late at night or early in the morning.
The race will start at 5 AM on Sunday (Central European Standard Time), while qualifying will be at 6 AM on Saturday. FP1 and FP3 are scheduled for 2:30 AM (Central European Standard Time).
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Friday, March 14, 2025
* 02:30 – Free Practice 1
* 06:00 – Free Practice 2
Saturday, March 15, 2025
* 02:30 – Free Practice 3
* 06:00 – Qualifying
Sunday, March 16, 2025
* 05:00 – Race
* – Central European Standard Time
Session times are subject to change, so it is advisable to check the schedule closer to the weekend.
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