Scuderia Fans

  • News
  • Current Drivers
    • Charles Leclerc
    • Lewis Hamilton
  • Races
    • 2026 F1 Hungarian Grand Prix
    • 2026 F1 Dutch Grand Prix
    • 2026 F1 Italian Grand Prix
    • 2026 F1 Spanish Grand Prix
    • 2026 F1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix
    • 2026 F1 Bahrain Grand Prix
    • 2026 F1 Singapore Grand Prix
    • 2026 F1 United States Grand Prix
  • Formula 1 Statistics
  • Ferrari F1 World Champions
    • Michael Schumacher
    • Kimi Raikkonen
    • Niki Lauda
    • Jody Scheckter
    • John Surtees
    • Phil Hill
    • Mike Hawthorn
    • Juan-Manuel Fangio
    • Alberto Ascari
  • Former Ferrari drivers
    • Sebastian Vettel
    • Felipe Massa
    • Fernando Alonso
    • Gilles Villeneuve
    • Jean Alesi
    • Alain Prost
    • Nigel Mansell
    • Gerhard Berger
    • Mario Andretti
    • Rubens Barrichello
    • Michele Alboreto
    • Patrick Tambay
    • Eddie Irvine
    • Rene Arnoux
    • Didier Pironi
    • Jacky Ickx
    • Carlos Reutemann
    • Clay Regazzoni
    • Stefan Johansson
    • Arturo Merzario
    • Giancarlo Fisichella
    • Carlos Sainz
  • Ferrari WEC
  • F1 TICKETS
  • Advertise with ScuderiaFans
  • Ferrari F1 Shop
  • Home
  • Formula 1 Schedule & Results
  • Formula 1 Driver Standings
  • Formula 1 Constructor Standings
  • Contact us
Home » Formula 1 circuits » Australian Grand Prix at Albert Park: Circuit Guide, History and Records

Australian Grand Prix at Albert Park: Circuit Guide, History and Records

F1 Australian GP - Albert Park circuit info, history

The Australian Grand Prix is one of Formula 1’s most established international races, combining decades of championship history with the fast, flowing challenge of Melbourne’s Albert Park Grand Prix Circuit. The modern event takes place on temporary roads surrounding Albert Park Lake, just a few kilometres from central Melbourne, creating an unusual circuit that blends the character of a street track with the speed and rhythm of a permanent racing venue.

Albert Park measures 5.278 kilometres and contains 14 corners following the major layout changes introduced for Formula 1’s return in 2022. The revisions transformed an already quick circuit into an even faster challenge, with a series of high-speed direction changes, heavy braking zones and long acceleration sections.

The Australian Grand Prix opened the new Formula 1 technical era in 2026. Ferrari began the season competitively: Charles Leclerc fought for the lead during the opening laps before finishing third, while Lewis Hamilton completed a strong team result in fourth.

The next Australian Grand Prix is set to return to Albert Park in 2027. The exact date, round number, weekend format and session timetable will be added to this page once the official 2027 Formula 1 calendar is confirmed.

Explore all Ferrari news, technical analysis and results from the 2026 Australian Grand Prix.

Australian Grand Prix at a glance

EventFormula 1 Australian Grand Prix
Current venueAlbert Park Grand Prix Circuit
LocationMelbourne, Victoria, Australia
Circuit typeTemporary parkland and street circuit
Circuit length5.278 km
Number of corners14
Number of laps58
Race distance306.124 km
Track directionClockwise
First World Championship Australian GP1985
First Australian GP in Melbourne1996
Official race lap record1:19.813 – Charles Leclerc, Ferrari, 2024
Fastest qualifying lap1:15.915 – Max Verstappen, Red Bull, 2024
Most Melbourne victoriesMichael Schumacher – four
Most successful constructor at Albert ParkFerrari – ten victories
Australian GP contractMelbourne confirmed through 2035

Next Australian Grand Prix: 2027

Formula 1 is already preparing for the 2027 Australian Grand Prix at Albert Park, with the official Formula 1 ticketing platform listing the event and allowing fans to join the ticket waitlist.

However, the complete 2027 Formula 1 calendar has not yet provided the information needed to build a full seasonal section on this page. The exact race date, championship round, session schedule and weekend format should therefore not be assumed from previous seasons.

Once Formula 1 and the FIA confirm those details, this section can be expanded with the complete 2027 weekend timetable, race-start time and any event-specific changes.

The long-term future of the race itself is secure. Formula 1’s agreement with Melbourne keeps the Australian Grand Prix at Albert Park through the 2035 season.

What happened at the 2026 Australian Grand Prix?

George Russell won the 2026 Australian Grand Prix as Mercedes began the new Formula 1 regulations with a one-two finish. Kimi Antonelli finished second, while Ferrari completed the next two positions with Charles Leclerc third and Lewis Hamilton fourth.

Russell had started from pole position alongside Antonelli, with Isack Hadjar third. Leclerc qualified fourth for Ferrari, while Hamilton started seventh.

The beginning of the race immediately brought Ferrari into the fight for victory. Leclerc made an excellent launch and moved into the lead ahead of Russell during the opening lap. The Ferrari and Mercedes drivers then fought closely as the positions changed during the early stages.

Strategy eventually became decisive. Mercedes stopped both cars during a Virtual Safety Car period caused by Hadjar’s retirement, while Ferrari kept Leclerc and Hamilton on track.

A second Virtual Safety Car followed when Valtteri Bottas stopped his Cadillac. Ferrari again chose not to pit, leaving its drivers on an alternative strategy to the Mercedes pair.

When Leclerc and Hamilton eventually made their stops, Russell and Antonelli regained track position. Mercedes was able to extend its tyres to the finish, while Ferrari could not close the gap sufficiently despite having newer rubber.

Russell won by 2.974 seconds from Antonelli. Leclerc finished 15.519 seconds behind the winner, with Hamilton only 0.625 seconds behind his Ferrari teammate.

The result still gave Ferrari 27 points from the opening race and placed both cars inside the top four.

2026 Australian Grand Prix qualifying

PositionDriverTeamTime
1George RussellMercedes1:18.518
2Kimi AntonelliMercedes1:18.811
3Isack HadjarRed Bull1:19.303
4Charles LeclercFerrari1:19.327
7Lewis HamiltonFerrari1:19.478

2026 Australian Grand Prix result

PositionDriverTeamGap
1George RussellMercedes1:23:06.801
2Kimi AntonelliMercedes+2.974
3Charles LeclercFerrari+15.519
4Lewis HamiltonFerrari+16.144
5Lando NorrisMcLaren+51.741
6Max VerstappenRed Bull+54.617

Max Verstappen set the fastest race lap with a 1:22.091, while Oscar Piastri was unable to start his home Grand Prix after crashing his McLaren on the way to the grid.

Recent Australian Grand Prix winners

YearWinnerTeam
2026George RussellMercedes
2025Lando NorrisMcLaren
2024Carlos SainzFerrari
2023Max VerstappenRed Bull
2022Charles LeclercFerrari
2019Valtteri BottasMercedes
2018Sebastian VettelFerrari
2017Sebastian VettelFerrari
2016Nico RosbergMercedes
2015Lewis HamiltonMercedes

The Australian Grand Prix was not held in 2020 or 2021 because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Albert Park Grand Prix Circuit information

Official circuit nameAlbert Park Grand Prix Circuit
LocationMelbourne, Victoria, Australia
First Formula 1 race1996
Circuit length5.278 km
Race laps58
Race distance306.124 km
Number of corners14
Track directionClockwise
Official race lap record1:19.813 – Charles Leclerc, Ferrari, 2024
Fastest qualifying lap1:15.915 – Max Verstappen, Red Bull, 2024
Most driver victories in MelbourneMichael Schumacher – four
Most pole positions in MelbourneLewis Hamilton – eight
Most successful team in MelbourneFerrari – ten victories
Ferrari Australian GP victoriesEleven
Ferrari Melbourne victoriesTen

What makes Albert Park unique?

Albert Park is unusual because it combines public roads with sections specifically adapted for motorsport. For most of the year, the roads surrounding Albert Park Lake serve ordinary traffic and recreational facilities before being transformed into a Formula 1 venue.

The resulting circuit has characteristics of both a street track and a permanent racing facility. Barriers remain relatively close in several areas, but wide grass and gravel sections provide more run-off than traditional city circuits such as Monaco or Singapore.

Albert Park is also much faster than most street venues. The 2022 redesign removed the former Turn 9-10 chicane and created a prolonged high-speed section that significantly increased average lap speed.

The circuit normally begins the weekend with relatively low grip because the public-road sections are not permanently covered with racing rubber. Grip increases quickly as Formula 1 and the support categories complete more laps.

Surface changes, bumps and painted road markings can affect the balance of the car, particularly under braking or when temperatures are low.

Melbourne’s weather creates another variable. Conditions can change quickly, while wind direction influences several of Albert Park’s high-speed corners and heavy braking zones.

How Albert Park changed in 2022

Formula 1 returned to Melbourne in 2022 with the most significant redesign of Albert Park since the circuit joined the championship.

Several corners were widened to encourage different racing lines. Turn 1 gained additional width at the entry, while Turn 3 was opened to improve overtaking possibilities. The biggest change involved removing the former Turns 9 and 10 chicane. The cars instead accelerate through an extremely fast section towards the braking zone later in the lap.

Other corners were modified to improve flow, while sections of the circuit were resurfaced for the first time since the inaugural Melbourne Grand Prix in 1996. The redesigned layout reduced the number of corners and substantially lowered lap times, giving Albert Park a faster and more flowing character.

Between 2022 and 2025, the increased full-throttle sections also allowed Formula 1 to experiment with an unusually high number of DRS zones. From 2026, DRS was replaced under the new Formula 1 technical regulations by active aerodynamics and Overtake Mode.

A lap of the Albert Park Formula 1 circuit

Start-finish straight and Turn 1

The lap begins on the start-finish straight before drivers approach the right-hand Turn 1 at high speed.

The braking zone provides an important overtaking opportunity, particularly at the beginning of the Grand Prix. The widened entry introduced during the circuit redesign gives drivers more freedom to attack different lines.

Turn 1 immediately leads into the left-hand Turn 2, meaning drivers attempting an overtake must think beyond the first apex. A car on the outside of Turn 1 may gain the preferred position for the second corner.

Traction from Turn 2 is important because drivers accelerate rapidly towards the next major braking zone.

Turn 3

Turn 3 is one of Albert Park’s principal overtaking opportunities. Drivers arrive at high speed and brake heavily for the tight right-hander.

The corner was widened during the 2022 modifications, giving competitors more room to attack under braking.

Front-wheel locking is a recurring risk because drivers try to delay braking while positioning the car for the technical section that follows.

A poor exit also compromises the immediate change of direction through Turn 4.

Turns 4 and 5

Turn 4 is a slower left-hander that requires good mechanical grip and precise rotation.

Drivers then accelerate into Turn 5, a considerably faster right-hand corner where aerodynamic stability becomes increasingly important.

The transition between slow and fast corners illustrates one of Albert Park’s main setup challenges. The car needs enough mechanical compliance for the slower turns without sacrificing aerodynamic control at higher speeds.

Turns 6 and 7

Turn 6 is another medium-speed right-hander where drivers carry significant momentum into the corner.

The exit leads towards Turn 7 and the beginning of Albert Park’s faster middle section. Front-end response becomes increasingly important as the speed rises.

Running too wide can place the tyres on less-grippy parts of the temporary road surface, particularly early in the weekend.

Turns 8 and 9: the high-speed section

The removal of the old chicane transformed this area of Albert Park. Formula 1 cars now accelerate through a prolonged high-speed section with very little interruption.

Drivers need confidence in the car’s aerodynamic balance because even a small correction can cost substantial speed.

The section also places greater emphasis on efficient energy use and straight-line performance. A following driver can remain in the slipstream before preparing an attack later in the lap.

Turns 9 and 10

The cars eventually reach a fast change of direction where accurate positioning becomes critical.

Drivers need a reactive front end that allows the car to change direction quickly while keeping the rear stable.

Following another car can be difficult because the reduction in clean airflow affects front grip, particularly when the pursuing driver is already near the aerodynamic limit.

Turns 11 and 12

The circuit then enters another important braking and acceleration section.

Drivers need to slow the car efficiently while maintaining enough rotation to prepare for the following corner. Mechanical grip and rear stability become more important as speeds decrease.

This section can create an overtaking opportunity when a driver has gained speed through the preceding high-speed part of the lap.

Turn 13

Turn 13 is a slower right-hander where drivers need to control front locking and rear-wheel slip.

Traction on exit is crucial because the final part of the lap follows immediately afterwards.

Drivers must avoid overheating the rear tyres through repeated acceleration events, particularly during a long race stint.

Turn 14 and the finish line

The final corner is a relatively fast right-hander leading directly onto the main straight.

A clean exit creates speed for the entire run towards Turn 1. During the race, a driver who stays close through the final corner can use the slipstream and the 2026 Overtake Mode system to increase pressure on the car ahead.

The corner also rewards confidence because a small lift of the throttle can translate into a measurable loss all the way down the straight.

Albert Park setup and technical demands

The modern Albert Park layout rewards aerodynamic efficiency. Teams need enough downforce to provide confidence through the numerous medium- and high-speed corners while avoiding excessive drag along the faster sections.

A medium-downforce configuration normally provides a useful compromise. However, the precise choice depends on the characteristics of the car, wind direction, tyre compounds and expected temperatures.

Front-end response is especially important. Albert Park contains several linked direction changes where understeer at one corner can compromise the next. Rear stability matters under braking and through the fastest sections. A nervous rear axle forces the driver to reduce speed or make steering corrections that cost momentum.

Mechanical grip remains necessary at the slower Turns 3 and 13. Drivers need to rotate the car efficiently before applying the throttle without creating excessive wheelspin. Ride height and suspension settings must account for the temporary road surface. The track is smoother than some city circuits but still contains bumps, changes in camber and road joins that can disturb the aerodynamic platform.

Teams must also manage brake temperatures. Albert Park combines several heavy stops with long high-speed sections, creating repeated heating and cooling cycles.

Explore our Ferrari technical analysis archive for updates on aerodynamic configuration, suspension, tyre behaviour and setup choices during future Australian Grand Prix weekends.

How the 2026 Formula 1 rules changed racing at Albert Park

The 2026 Australian Grand Prix was the first race held under Formula 1’s new technical regulations.

One of the most visible changes involved overtaking assistance. The traditional Drag Reduction System used during the previous generation of Formula 1 cars was replaced.

All cars now use active aerodynamic modes, while a driver running sufficiently close to the car ahead can gain access to Overtake Mode. The system provides additional electrical energy that can be used to sustain higher speed and create an attacking opportunity. Albert Park provides an interesting test for the system because a strong exit from the final corner allows a driver to build pressure before Turn 1, while other long acceleration zones can create additional passing opportunities.

The circuit’s mixture of fast corners and straights also rewards efficient management of electrical energy, making deployment strategy an increasingly important part of both qualifying and race performance.

Tyres and strategy at the Australian Grand Prix

Albert Park’s relatively smooth surface does not always produce extreme mechanical tyre wear, but the fast corners place substantial lateral energy through the rubber. Graining can become a concern when temperatures are cool. Drivers may slide across the surface before the tyres reach the correct operating window, damaging the tread and reducing grip.

Higher temperatures create a different challenge by increasing thermal degradation. A driver who pushes too aggressively during the opening laps of a stint may lose performance later. Track evolution is significant because the circuit is built partly on public roads. Friday practice may therefore provide less representative grip than qualifying and the race.

The Australian Grand Prix has often favoured a one-stop strategy in dry conditions, but Safety Cars and Virtual Safety Cars can alter the calculation significantly. The 2026 race demonstrated this clearly. Mercedes used Virtual Safety Car periods to make strategically efficient stops, while Ferrari remained on track and ultimately surrendered the track-position advantage.

Because the pit-stop time loss is meaningful but not extreme, an interruption can make an early stop particularly attractive.

Teams must therefore remain flexible rather than committing completely to a predetermined strategy before the race.

Safety Cars and interruptions at Albert Park

Albert Park has a history of incidents because of its high speeds, barriers and relatively narrow racing lines.

A stopped car can require a Virtual Safety Car or full Safety Car, while larger accidents may force race control to suspend the session entirely.

The 2023 Australian Grand Prix became an extreme example, with three red flags and a chaotic late restart.

Drivers must also cope with low grip during the opening laps of practice or following rain, when the temporary road surface can become particularly slippery.

Safety Car probability influences strategy before the Grand Prix begins. Teams often retain flexibility with tyre life in case an interruption creates a cheaper opportunity to pit.

History of the Australian Grand Prix

Motor racing under the Australian Grand Prix name has a history stretching back well before the creation of the Formula 1 World Championship, but the event first joined the World Championship calendar in 1985.

The inaugural championship Australian Grand Prix took place on a street circuit in Adelaide, South Australia. Keke Rosberg won for Williams.

Adelaide remained the Australian Grand Prix venue for 11 seasons and traditionally hosted the final race of the championship.

The Adelaide era

The Adelaide Street Circuit quickly developed a reputation as a difficult and atmospheric season finale.

Its concrete barriers, hot conditions and demanding layout produced several memorable championship moments.

Alain Prost won the dramatic 1986 race and secured the World Championship after Nigel Mansell suffered a tyre failure while in title contention.

In 1991, torrential rain forced the Grand Prix to be stopped after only 14 laps. Ayrton Senna was declared the winner in what remained for many years the shortest Formula 1 race by distance.

The 1994 season finale produced one of the championship’s most controversial moments when Michael Schumacher and Damon Hill collided while fighting for the title. Schumacher became World Champion by a single point.

The final Adelaide Grand Prix took place in 1995, with Damon Hill winning for Williams.

Formula 1 moves to Melbourne

A deal to bring the Australian Grand Prix to Melbourne had been completed several years earlier, and Albert Park was prepared to take over from Adelaide.

Melbourne held its first Formula 1 race in March 1996, only a few months after Adelaide had hosted the previous season finale.

The Australian Grand Prix also moved from the end of the championship to the beginning, becoming Formula 1’s traditional season opener for many years.

Damon Hill won the inaugural Melbourne race after teammate Jacques Villeneuve had started from pole position on his Formula 1 debut.

Albert Park becomes a Formula 1 fixture

Albert Park quickly became one of Formula 1’s most recognisable venues. Its location close to central Melbourne, large crowds and parkland setting created a distinctive atmosphere.

The race was absent in 2020 and 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic before returning with a redesigned circuit in 2022.

The revised layout increased average speeds and improved the racing opportunities, while substantial investment modernised the venue and supporting infrastructure.

Melbourne’s long-term agreement means Albert Park is scheduled to remain the home of the Australian Grand Prix through 2035.

Memorable Australian Grand Prix moments

Alain Prost wins the 1986 championship

The 1986 Australian Grand Prix remains one of Formula 1’s classic championship finales.

Nigel Mansell arrived in Adelaide leading the standings but suffered a spectacular rear-tyre failure while travelling at high speed.

Nelson Piquet was brought into the pits as a precaution, allowing Alain Prost to win the race and secure his second consecutive World Championship.

Michael Schumacher and Damon Hill collide in 1994

Michael Schumacher and Damon Hill entered the Adelaide finale separated by one point.

After Schumacher ran off the circuit and damaged his Benetton, Hill attempted to pass. The two cars collided and both retired.

The result gave Schumacher his first Formula 1 World Championship.

Melbourne’s dramatic first race in 1996

The first Albert Park Grand Prix immediately produced drama when Martin Brundle’s Jordan was launched into a spectacular accident at Turn 3.

Brundle escaped unhurt and even returned for the restart in the spare car.

Jacques Villeneuve had taken pole position on his Formula 1 debut and led much of the race before an oil problem forced him to slow. Damon Hill passed his teammate and won.

Ferrari dominates in the early 2000s

Michael Schumacher transformed Albert Park into one of Ferrari’s strongest circuits during the early 2000s.

The German won in 2000, 2001, 2002 and 2004, setting a Melbourne record of four victories that remains unbeaten.

Kimi Räikkönen wins on his Ferrari debut

Kimi Räikkönen began his Ferrari career by taking pole position, victory and fastest lap at the 2007 Australian Grand Prix.

The result provided an ideal start to a season that ended with Räikkönen becoming Formula 1 World Champion for Ferrari.

Sebastian Vettel returns Ferrari to victory in 2017

Sebastian Vettel defeated Lewis Hamilton in 2017 to give Ferrari its first Grand Prix victory since the 2015 Singapore Grand Prix.

Ferrari used the pit-stop phase and Vettel’s strong pace in clear air to move ahead of the Mercedes.

The victory immediately established Vettel as a serious championship challenger.

Vettel wins again in 2018

Ferrari repeated its Australian success one year later.

A Virtual Safety Car created an opportunity for Vettel to make his pit stop while losing less time, allowing him to emerge ahead of Hamilton and claim a second consecutive Melbourne victory.

Charles Leclerc dominates in 2022

Charles Leclerc delivered one of the strongest performances of his Formula 1 career during the first race on the redesigned Albert Park circuit.

The Ferrari driver started from pole, led every lap, won the Grand Prix and set the fastest lap.

His performance strengthened Ferrari’s early championship position and demonstrated the pace of the F1-75.

The chaotic 2023 finish

The 2023 Australian Grand Prix featured three red flags and one of the most confusing endings of the modern Formula 1 era.

A late standing restart resulted in multiple collisions before the race was stopped again.

The classification was eventually restored to the order before the restart, and Max Verstappen won ahead of Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso.

Carlos Sainz leads Ferrari one-two in 2024

Carlos Sainz returned to competition only two weeks after undergoing surgery for appendicitis.

He passed Max Verstappen during the opening stages before the Red Bull retired with a brake problem.

Sainz controlled the remainder of the Grand Prix and won ahead of Charles Leclerc, delivering Ferrari’s first Melbourne one-two since 2004.

Ferrari fights Mercedes in 2026

Charles Leclerc took the lead during the opening lap of the first race under the 2026 regulations.

Ferrari remained in contention through the early stages, but Mercedes gained the strategic advantage by stopping under the Virtual Safety Car periods.

Leclerc finished third and Lewis Hamilton fourth, giving Ferrari two cars inside the top four but leaving the team to reflect on a missed opportunity to challenge for victory.

Ferrari’s history at the Australian Grand Prix

Ferrari has one of the strongest records in Australian Grand Prix history. The Scuderia has won the World Championship event 11 times, including ten victories at Albert Park.

YearFerrari winnerVenue
1987Gerhard BergerAdelaide
1999Eddie IrvineAlbert Park
2000Michael SchumacherAlbert Park
2001Michael SchumacherAlbert Park
2002Michael SchumacherAlbert Park
2004Michael SchumacherAlbert Park
2007Kimi RäikkönenAlbert Park
2017Sebastian VettelAlbert Park
2018Sebastian VettelAlbert Park
2022Charles LeclercAlbert Park
2024Carlos SainzAlbert Park

Gerhard Berger gives Ferrari its first Australian win

Gerhard Berger delivered Ferrari’s first World Championship Australian Grand Prix victory in Adelaide in 1987.

The Austrian controlled the race from pole position, with teammate Michele Alboreto finishing second to complete a Ferrari one-two.

Eddie Irvine wins the 1999 season opener

Eddie Irvine claimed his first Formula 1 victory at Albert Park in 1999.

The result began a season in which Irvine eventually fought Mika Häkkinen for the Drivers’ Championship until the final race.

Michael Schumacher builds a Melbourne record

Michael Schumacher won four times at Albert Park for Ferrari, in 2000, 2001, 2002 and 2004.

No driver has won more Australian Grands Prix at the Melbourne circuit.

The 2004 race also produced a Ferrari one-two, with Rubens Barrichello finishing behind Schumacher.

Kimi Räikkönen begins his Ferrari career perfectly

Kimi Räikkönen arrived at Ferrari in 2007 as Michael Schumacher’s replacement and immediately won his first race for the Scuderia.

His Melbourne victory was followed by a season-long championship fight that ultimately delivered Ferrari’s most recent Drivers’ World Championship.

Sebastian Vettel wins twice

Sebastian Vettel returned Ferrari to the top step at Albert Park in 2017 and repeated the achievement in 2018.

Both victories involved close strategic battles with Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes.

Charles Leclerc controls the 2022 race

Charles Leclerc dominated the 2022 Australian Grand Prix from pole position and set the fastest lap.

He also became the first Ferrari driver since Fernando Alonso at Singapore in 2010 to complete a Formula 1 grand slam by taking pole, victory, fastest lap and leading every lap.

Carlos Sainz completes an emotional comeback in 2024

Carlos Sainz’s 2024 victory came shortly after surgery and remains one of the most remarkable Ferrari performances of recent years.

Charles Leclerc finished second, giving the Scuderia its tenth victory at Albert Park and its first Melbourne one-two for 20 years.

Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton open 2026 on the podium fight

Ferrari began the 2026 season with both cars fighting near the front.

Leclerc qualified fourth but immediately moved into the lead at the start. Hamilton also gained positions during the opening phase.

Mercedes’ use of the Virtual Safety Cars ultimately determined the race, but Leclerc’s third place and Hamilton’s fourth ensured Ferrari began the new regulatory cycle with both drivers scoring heavily.

Australian Grand Prix records and statistics

  • First World Championship Australian Grand Prix: 1985.
  • Original Formula 1 venue: Adelaide Street Circuit.
  • First Melbourne Grand Prix: 1996.
  • Current circuit: Albert Park Grand Prix Circuit.
  • Current circuit length: 5.278 kilometres.
  • Number of corners: 14.
  • Race laps: 58.
  • Race distance: 306.124 kilometres.
  • Official race lap record: Charles Leclerc, 1:19.813 for Ferrari in 2024.
  • Fastest qualifying lap: Max Verstappen, 1:15.915 for Red Bull in 2024.
  • Most Melbourne victories: Michael Schumacher, with four.
  • Most Melbourne pole positions: Lewis Hamilton, with eight.
  • Most successful constructor at Albert Park: Ferrari, with ten victories.
  • Total Ferrari Australian GP victories: 11.
  • Ferrari’s first Australian victory: Gerhard Berger in Adelaide in 1987.
  • Ferrari’s first Melbourne victory: Eddie Irvine in 1999.
  • Most recent Ferrari victory: Carlos Sainz in 2024.
  • Most recent winner: George Russell in 2026.
  • Years not held during the Melbourne era: 2020 and 2021.
  • Major modern circuit redesign: 2022.
  • Melbourne Formula 1 agreement: through 2035.

Frequently asked questions about the Australian Grand Prix

Where is the Australian Grand Prix held?

The Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix is held at the Albert Park Grand Prix Circuit in Melbourne, Victoria.

When is the next Australian Grand Prix?

The next edition is expected at Albert Park in 2027. The exact race date and session timetable should be added once the official 2027 Formula 1 calendar is confirmed.

Is the 2027 Australian Grand Prix confirmed?

Formula 1’s official ticketing platform already lists the 2027 Australian Grand Prix at Albert Park and allows fans to join a ticket waitlist. Melbourne also holds a long-term agreement to host the event through 2035.

How long is Albert Park?

The current circuit measures 5.278 kilometres. The Australian Grand Prix covers 58 laps and a race distance of 306.124 kilometres.

How many corners does Albert Park have?

The modern layout contains 14 corners and runs in a clockwise direction.

Is Albert Park a street circuit?

Albert Park is a temporary circuit using roads surrounding Albert Park Lake. Its wide layout, run-off areas and high speeds give it more of a permanent-circuit character than many traditional street tracks.

When did Formula 1 first race in Australia?

The Australian Grand Prix joined the Formula 1 World Championship in 1985 at Adelaide.

When did the Australian GP move to Melbourne?

Albert Park hosted its first World Championship Australian Grand Prix in 1996.

Why was Albert Park redesigned?

The major 2022 modifications were designed to improve racing and increase overtaking opportunities. Several corners were widened and the old Turn 9-10 chicane was removed, creating a much faster layout.

Who has won most often at Albert Park?

Michael Schumacher holds the Melbourne record with four victories, all achieved for Ferrari.

Which team has won most often at Albert Park?

Ferrari is the most successful constructor in Melbourne with ten victories.

How many Australian Grands Prix has Ferrari won?

Ferrari has won 11 World Championship Australian Grands Prix: one at Adelaide and ten at Albert Park.

Who holds the Albert Park race lap record?

Charles Leclerc holds the official race lap record with a 1:19.813 set for Ferrari during the 2024 Australian Grand Prix.

What is the fastest qualifying lap at Albert Park?

Max Verstappen recorded a 1:15.915 for Red Bull during qualifying for the 2024 Australian Grand Prix.

Who won the 2026 Australian Grand Prix?

George Russell won for Mercedes ahead of teammate Kimi Antonelli. Charles Leclerc finished third for Ferrari and Lewis Hamilton fourth.

Why did Ferrari lose the lead in the 2026 race?

Ferrari stayed on track during two Virtual Safety Car periods while Mercedes used the interruptions to make strategically cheaper pit stops. When Leclerc and Hamilton eventually stopped, the Mercedes drivers regained the leading positions and remained ahead to the finish.

Who won the first Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne?

Damon Hill won the first Albert Park Formula 1 race for Williams in 1996.

Who won Ferrari’s first Australian Grand Prix?

Gerhard Berger delivered Ferrari’s first Australian Grand Prix victory at Adelaide in 1987.

Who won Ferrari’s first race at Albert Park?

Eddie Irvine won the 1999 Australian Grand Prix, giving Ferrari its first Formula 1 victory in Melbourne.

Did Charles Leclerc dominate the 2022 Australian GP?

Yes. Charles Leclerc took pole position, led every lap, won the race and set the fastest lap for Ferrari.

Why is the Australian Grand Prix often unpredictable?

Albert Park combines high speeds, changing grip levels, temporary-road surfaces, close barriers and variable Melbourne weather. Safety Cars and Virtual Safety Cars can also create significant strategic opportunities.

Follow Ferrari at the Australian Grand Prix

ScuderiaFans covers every Ferrari Australian Grand Prix weekend with practice reports, qualifying analysis, race results, technical developments, tyre information, strategy assessments and reactions from Charles Leclerc, Lewis Hamilton and the Maranello team.

Revisit our complete Ferrari coverage from the 2026 Australian Grand Prix at Albert Park.

For the broader season, visit the Formula 1 calendar and results, driver standings and constructor standings.

Aug 24, 2025Scuderia Fans
Next F1 race
0 Days
00 Hours
00 Mins
00 Secs
RACE DAY
until lights out
Gear up with Ferrari merchandise!
Buy official Ferrari 2026 F1 products
2026 Formula 1 calendar

Complete 2026 Formula 1 calendar with all Grand Prix dates and locations

Latest Ferrari technical analysis
Ferrari SF-26 sidepods, garage, 2026 F1
Ferrari aims to improve high-speed cornering with major SF-26 aero update at COTA
7 hours ago
Charles Leclerc, Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari 2026 F1, sidepods
Ferrari’s final SF-26 evolution aims to solve a fundamental weakness
10 hours ago
Charles Leclerc, Ferrari SF-26 sidepods, floor, 2026 F1
Ferrari SF-26 upgrades explained: how new floor could help Leclerc and Hamilton at Austin
1 day ago
Ferrari SF-26, suspension, garage, 2026 F1
Ferrari’s Austin upgrades aim to deliver crucial gains for F1 2027 car
2 days ago
Ferrari SF-26, power unit, engine, rear wing, mechanics, 2026 F1
Ferrari SF-26 analysis: rear tyre weakness emerges again before Austin upgrades
4 days ago

Latest articles

  • Charles Leclerc’s wife Alexandra shares elegant maternity photos in Zimmermann dress
  • Lewis Hamilton’s father shares warm encounter with Max Verstappen and Valentino Rossi
  • Christian Horner reveals why Lewis Hamilton’s secret Red Bull move collapsed in 2012
  • Ferrari F2007 floor controversy: Luigi Mazzola reveals what happened in 2007
  • Fred Vasseur wants friendly media, but is that what Ferrari really needs?
Partners
Betwinner

non-GamStop casinos

best online casinos not on GamStop

bwacademy

magyarkaszinooldalak

GP-News - latest F1 news updates

The most accurate sports predictions and latest news available on TipsGG

1Win

no deposit casinos at GHZD Betpack Mostbet Pakistan australiacasinopokies

Formula 1 News

Guitar Junky

Best Intraday Tips

Contact Center Company

SilverArrows.Net - Mercedes F1 news

TopSpeed

Esports Forum

Racing Statistics

Fixture Calendar

Live F1 Results

You can find reel-based games without download or registration via free slots on Slotozilla

Uusia Nettikasinoita
Thailand Walking Street

de bedste odds uden ROFUS på Leadership.ng

Get In Touch With Us

  • Advertise with ScuderiaFans
  • Contact us
  • Corrections Policy
  • Editorial Policy
  • Privacy Policy
  • Support ScuderiaFans.com

Meet the team

  • About us
  • Our writers
  • Formula 1 Circuits
  • 2026 Formula 1 Calendar
  • Formula 1 Statistics & Analysis
  • Ferrari F1 FAQ

© 2016–2026 Scuderia Fans Ltd. All rights reserved.

Scuderia Fans Ltd.
199 Republicii Street, 5A
Ploiesti, Romania, 100392
2016 © Scuderia Fans