The Australian Grand Prix is set to return to its usual mid-March slot next year with Formula 1’s new owners Liberty Media keen to move the race to its original date.
This year’s event was moved back a week later after F1’s governing body – the FIA – made the decision to provide teams extra time to get on top of the new regulations, brought in for this season, over pre-season testing.
However, it is understood Liberty, along with Melbourne’s race organisers, is keen to avoid the clash with the AFL Premiership.
The Australian Grand Prix has been the traditional season-opener since 1996 – after it replaced Adelaide as the home to F1 down under.
Melbourne looks likely to keep hold of its spot as FOM begins planning next year’s race calendar.
“We’re working with them [FOM] and we’re very confident we’ll get an outcome, and if that works out to be March 18, then we’ll be very happy,” said Australian Grand Prix Corporation chief executive Andrew Westacott.
“The first race of the season is going to be in Melbourne and we’re working with FOM on the date. Our desire would be to have it on March 18 and if it can’t be that, then it’s March 25. It’s one of those two dates.”
In a bid to draw in more crowds, F1’s new management has agreed the Supercars support race will gain championship status.
The 2017 race saw an increase of 12 per cent in crowds as Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel beat Lewis Hamilton to win the opening round of the season
