The Australian Formula 1 Grand Prix will remain in Melbourne until at least 2035, under a new deal that extends the race’s agreement by a further 10 years.
In a first for the Australian race, both the Formula 2 and Formula 3 categories will be added to the race weekend schedule from next year.
The move ends any hopes of New South Wales stealing the race, a plan floated by the state’s premier Dominic Perrottet last year.
READ MORE: Huni’s promoter rips ‘disgusting’ Goodall tactics
READ MORE: Hero ‘keeper’s shifty drink bottle ploy revealed
READ MORE: Blues look to old enemy for Origin survival
“It’s a loss for the F1. That’s all I can say,” Perrottet said.
“It’s probably going to be a disappointing event for years to come until it comes back to its rightful home.
“It’s a global event and Sydney is really only Australia’s global city.”
Albert Park has hosted the race since taking over from Adelaide in 1996.
This year’s event saw more than 419,000 fans flock to the track across the weekend.
“I am delighted to confirm that Melbourne and the Albert Park circuit will continue to be on the Formula 1 calendar until 2035,” said F1 boss Stefano Domenicali.
“The race has always been a favourite for the fans, drivers and the teams and Melbourne is an incredible and vibrant international city that is a perfect match for our sport.”
Improvements to the paddock and pit lane are planned in order for the circuit to keep pace with the facilities available at others around the world. The upgrades follow changes to the track that were implemented for this year’s race.
“This is a sensational announcement that is simply great for Melbourne and Victoria,” said Australian Grand Prix boss Andrew Westacott.
“It builds on our rich motorsport history as well as Melbourne’s love of big sporting events and provides aspiration to the next generation of Aussie racing stars.
https://twitter.com/CroftyF1/status/1537202912404901888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
“We’re proud of our strong relationship with Formula 1 and together we will grow the sport in Australia and the broader Asia-Pacific region. Everyone at the Australian Grand Prix Corporation looks forward to taking the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix to new levels over the course of the next 13 years.”
The date for next year’s race is yet to be locked in, but the event is once again expected to be held in either March or April.
For a daily dose of the best of the breaking news and exclusive content from Wide World of Sports, subscribe to our newsletter by clicking here!