Track map / aerial image coming soon
Track Info
| Location | Melbourne, Victoria, Australia |
| Type | Street Circuit (semi-permanent, around Albert Park Lake) |
| Length | 5.278 km (3.280 miles) |
| Turns | 14 |
| Capacity | ~120,000 |
| Opened | 1996 (first Australian GP at this venue) |
Track Characteristics
Albert Park is a semi-permanent street circuit laid out on public roads around the picturesque Albert Park Lake, just minutes from Melbourne's city center. The track was significantly modified ahead of the 2022 season, with several corners removed or reprofiled to create more overtaking opportunities and higher average speeds. The changes were widely praised and transformed what had been a processional venue into one of the most exciting circuits on the calendar.
The lap begins with a fast blast down the main straight before the tight Turn 1 right-hander, which is one of the best overtaking spots on the circuit. Turns 6 and 7 were merged into a single fast left-hander during the 2022 redesign, and the sequence through Turns 9 and 10 now features a dramatic high-speed run. The lakeside setting means the track surface can be slippery early in sessions as it is only used once a year, but grip builds rapidly as rubber is laid down.
Melbourne has a reputation for producing chaotic and unpredictable races. The combination of a street circuit, unpredictable weather, and the excitement of the season-opening event often leads to safety cars, red flags, and surprise results. It is a favorite among fans and drivers alike for its carnival atmosphere and the energy of the Australian crowd.
Getting There
| Nearest Airport | Melbourne Airport (MEL), approximately 25 km northwest of the circuit. Avalon Airport (AVV) is an alternative about 55 km southwest. |
| Nearest City | Melbourne (the circuit is within the city, about 3 km south of the CBD) |
2026 Event Info
| Race Name | Australian Grand Prix |
| Round | 1 of 22 |
| Sprint Weekend | No |
| TV | Apple TV |
Track Record
| Lap Record | 1:19.813 (revised layout) |
| Record Holder | Charles Leclerc (Ferrari, 2024) |
Notable Past Races
- 2024: Carlos Sainz won from pole position just weeks after being told he would be replaced by Lewis Hamilton at Ferrari for 2025. An emotional and defiant victory in front of passionate fans.
- 2022: Charles Leclerc dominated the first race on the revised layout, leading every lap. The reshaped circuit delivered significantly more overtaking action and was praised by drivers and fans.
- 2009: Jenson Button and Brawn GP stunned the world by winning in Melbourne on the team's debut. The former Honda team, rescued from closure over the winter, became the feelgood story of the decade.
- 1996: The first Australian GP at Albert Park saw Eddie Irvine, Martin Brundle, and Johnny Herbert crash spectacularly. Damon Hill won to start his championship campaign.
Track Facts
- Albert Park hosted its first F1 race in 1996 after the Australian Grand Prix moved from Adelaide, where it had been held since 1985.
- The circuit runs clockwise around Albert Park Lake, and local roads are used by regular traffic for the rest of the year.
- The 2022 layout changes removed the old Turn 9/10 chicane and widened several corners, increasing average lap speed by roughly 5 seconds.
- Melbourne often serves as the season opener, giving it a unique atmosphere of anticipation after the winter break.
- The event is known for its festival-like atmosphere, with live music, food trucks, and family entertainment throughout the park.
Get Tickets
Tickets available at grandprix.com.au