The Formula 1 season is finally here. After months of testing, speculation, and driver announcements, the 2025 World Championship gets underway at Melbourne’s Albert Park circuit this weekend. The Australian Grand Prix is one of the most beloved rounds on the calendar, and the proximity to the season opener always gives it an electric atmosphere.
The Circuit
Albert Park is a street circuit built around a public park lake in the Melbourne suburb of St Kilda. It is not a purpose-built racing facility - for 51 weeks of the year it is a public road - but its combination of fast flowing sections and technical corners has made it a favourite with drivers and fans alike.
The circuit underwent significant changes in 2022, with several corners reshaped and the run through turns 9-10 radically altered. Average lap speeds increased substantially and overtaking opportunities improved. The resulting circuit is quick, exciting, and particularly sensitive to wind direction.
2025 Session Schedule
All times are local Melbourne time (AEDT). Use The Racing Line app to convert sessions to your local timezone automatically.
- Friday: Practice 1 (12:30), Practice 2 (16:00)
- Saturday: Practice 3 (12:30), Qualifying (16:00)
- Sunday: Race (15:00)
What to Watch
This is the first race of the season - meaning upgraded cars, new partnerships, and immediately fascinating data. Watch for how quickly Lewis Hamilton adapts to Ferrari machinery under competitive conditions, and whether Lando Norris can put McLaren at the front of the grid from round one.
Red Bull’s reliability and Verstappen’s pace will be the benchmark everything else is measured against.
How to Watch the Australian Grand Prix
In Australia, Fox Sports carries the full live package. Foxtel subscribers can watch on TV; Fox Sports is also available via Kayo Sports on streaming devices. Check The Racing Line app for the most up-to-date broadcast information for your region.
Our Prediction
Verstappen wins, but McLaren make it interesting. Expect Ferrari to be competitive in race trim if not necessarily the fastest in qualifying. The Australian GP often throws up strategic surprises and safety cars - anything can happen at Albert Park.
