The 2009 Formula One season begins in Melbourne, Australia, at the purpose built Albert Park Circuit. The re-vamped format for 2009 will see the events commencing later in the day and finishing in the twilight hours, offering Formula One fans in Europe the opportunity to watch the action at a reasonable hour.
Widely regarded as one of the fastest circuits, Albert Park in Melbourne merges consistent placement of corners with a track design that features long straights, sweeping curves and tight chicanes, making it a tough challenge for every Formula One driver and offering plenty of action for the spectators.
The interactive version of the above circuit graphic is available on the FIA website (click here).
Changes to the circuit since 2008
• The verge on the exit of turn 12 has been flattened.
• The kerbs and artificial grass have been extended on the exit of turns 6 and 12.
Circuit data
Length of lap:
Offset:
Total number of race laps:
Total race distance:
Speed limits in the pit lane: |
5.303km
0.000km
58
307.574km
60km/h during practice sessions; 100km/h during race |
Formula One time table and media opportunities organised by the FIA
Thursday
Individual driver photographs
Press Conference
Briefing for accredited TV and radio media
Friday
Practice Session 1
Practice Session 2
Press Conference
Saturday
Practice Session 3
Qualifying
Followed by unilateral and press conference
Sunday
Drivers Parade and Group Photograph
Race
Followed by unilateral and press conference |
13.00 – 15.00 hrs
15.00 hrs
17.00 hrs
12.30 – 14.00 hrs
16.30 – 18.00 hrs
18.30 hrs
14.00 – 15.00 hrs
17.00 – 18.00 hrs
15.25 – 15.45 hrs
17.00 hrs |
Additional media opportunities• Autograph signing: All drivers will sign autographs for the public in their designated team space in the pit lane. Timing to be confirmed.
• Qualifying: All drivers eliminated in Q1 or Q2 will be available for media interviews immediately after the end of each session. In addition, all drivers who participated in Q3, and who are not required to take part in the post-qualifying press conference, will also be available for media interviews immediately after Q3. Location to be confirmed.
• Race: Any driver retiring before the end of the race will be available for media interviews after his return to the paddock. In addition, all drivers who finish the race outside the top three will be available immediately after the end of the race for media interviews. Location for these interviews to be confirmed.
• During the race every team will make at least one senior spokesperson available for interviews for officially accredited TV crews.