Australian Formula One Grand Prix
The Australian Grand Prix was once held in Adelaide, however following safety concerns after a high speed crash in free practice in 1995, the Australian Grand Prix moved to Albert Park in Melbourne.
Situated around only a mile from the skyscrapers of the central business district, the Melbourne Grand Prix's 3.29 mile circuit backdrop consists of public roads. Despite its 16 corners, it is one of the fastest street circuits in the world, with top speeds of over 190mph, and average lap times of around 140mph. Because the track consists of conventional road tarmac, traction in the early stages of the Grand Prix weekend is always an issue until a 'racing line' is laid down over the course of the race weekend. Albert Park is also a tough track for both drivers and machinery since as many as 3'500 gear-changes are made during the race and full throttle is used for three-quarters of an average lap. Further difficulties are caused by the fact that the track is bumpy and has little run-off areas, so a sound chassis is essential for success and also to avoid making high speed contact with the many walls around Albert Park. |
ALBERT PARKLOCATION: Melbourne, Australia
CIRCUIT TYPE: City Park, Street
CIRCUIT LENGTH: 3.29 Miles
LAP RECORD: 1:24.125 - M.Schumacher 2004
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