2013 Formula One Australian Grand Prix

[Hampus Andersson]

When Formula One came to Australia in 1985 it set up home in Adelaide. However, ex-racer-turned-entrepreneur Bob Jane wanted a race in Melbourne. He created a huge 'thunderdome' and invented the AUSCAR series, bringing NASCAR action to Australia.

The desire to have a race in Melbourne did not wane. Despite the popular end of season slot for the Adelaide race, pressure was growing from the Melbourne motor sport community, and in 1992 Jeff Kennett was elected the new premier of the State of Victoria. He immediately set about improving Melbourne's profile. First on his list was the Australian Grand Prix.

An agreement was reached with Formula One in 1993, but the contract with Adelaide did not expire until 1995, so Kennett had plenty of time to prepare. A track was developed in Melbourne's beautiful Albert Park, part of it using closed-off public roads, and in 1996 the city held the first round of the world championship. Since then the race has become very popular with drivers and fans alike, and the party atmosphere of Melbourne keeps them coming back year after year.

2012 Formula One Australian Grand Prix
2011 Formula One Australian Grand Prix
2010 Formula One Australian Grand Prix
2009 Formula One Australian Grand Prix

 

[Hampus Andersson]

Q

1. Vettel
2. Raikkonen
3. Hamilton
4. Button
5. Alonso

The greatest show on earth is just about to begin

 

[Shane Butler]

It's going to be really hot next week in Melbourne so no chance of rain from what I've heard. I wonder if the high temperatures will suit one team more than another - Lotus possibly? I'm not sure..

My prediction for the top five in qualifying is
1 - Alonso
2 - Maldonado
3 - Grosjean
4 - Bottas
5 - Vettel

I think things are going to be a bit messed up in the first few races, like we saw at the start of 2012. But I'm one for crazy predictions so dont listen to me

It's going to be a Lotus victory, either Kimi or Grosjean. Came to me in a dream last night..

 

[Metalfreaky]

"Oh dear, it happend again" - Professor M

You forgot the poll

 

[Kartik Sri Harsha]

Oh Its So good to see the GP Thread back again

 

[Bram Hengeveld]

Polly added

 

[Jimi Hughes]

Voted Jenson Button, but in all honesty I could not care less who wins, I'm just happy that it is back! Winter is so dull

 

[Bram Hengeveld]

I have exchanged Michael Schumacher for Guido vd Garde and will keep voting for him until he wins

 

[Deleted member 90535]

Finally! I never can bare waiting this long for F1 Voted for Jenson, since he is my second favorite driver (just after Kubica, but he's in WRC). But I have the same opinion as Jimi above, just give me Formula 1 back

 

[Jordi Casademunt]

I have exchanged Michael Schumacher for Guido vd Garde and will keep voting for him until he wins

You better have a comfortable chair, Bram

Not that I'm any better. I'm voting on Hulkenberg taking pole, win, fastest lap and making Maldonado crash at some point in the race.

And seriously? I expect a surprise podium.

 

[Victor Ivanov]

2 votes for Chilton Somebody is very very optimistic ROFL

 

[Hampus Andersson]

pointless spending time making threads if only 10% of it stays.

 

[Bram Hengeveld]

So Kimi is now the big favorite for the win?

 

[Jordi Casademunt]

As long as they don't show him those blue flags again, he's got a chance.

 

[ENDR]

As long as they don't show him those blue flags again, he's got a chance.

Or he doesn't get lost on exit roads around the circuit

 

[Victor Ivanov]

Or he doesn't get lost on exit roads around the circuit

I heard Garmin wants to be his personal sponsor for 2013

 

[Tony Holder]

Button to win.

 

[Bram Hengeveld]

Will be a close battle between Chilton and Vd Garde this race, whaha. We aren't experts, we are wishful thinking fanboys

 

[CJ Flynn]

i just notice that NBCSN will be showing F1 not SPEED hmm

 

[Bram Hengeveld]

I still have no clue where and how to watch the first race. Will BBC broadcast this one?