Melbourne will continue to play host for the Formula 1® Australian Grand Prix until at least 2025, with confirmation that Formula 1 has exercised its option to extend the Australian round of the world championship by a further two years.

Next year’s race will celebrate 25 years of racing around the now iconic Albert Park Grand Prix Circuit, which has hosted all but two season opening Formula 1 rounds since 1996. The new deal will see Melbourne host 30 consecutive Formula 1 rounds by 2025, and 41 between Adelaide and Melbourne since its World Championship status in 1985.

Chase Carey, CEO and Chairman of Formula 1®, is excited by the continued potential the Australian Grand Prix has on both a sporting and entertainment front.

“The decision to extend the current relationship for a further two years stems from the fact this event has proved to be a resounding success for the capital of Victoria, for Australia and indeed around the world, proving immensely popular with fans and those who work in Formula 1,” Carey said.

“Working along with our partner, the Australian Grand Prix Corporation, we plan to make the Australian Grand Prix even more exciting and spectacular, as a sporting event and as a form of entertainment.

“Today’s announcement follows on from last week’s, relating to the British Grand Prix, and is proof that more and more promoters are sharing our long-term vision for the future of Formula 1.”

Victorian Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events, Martin Pakula, echoed the sentiments of Carey.

“This is a fantastic vote of confidence from Formula 1 to continue racing in Melbourne until at least 2025,” Pakula said.

“The Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix has contributed significantly to Melbourne’s standing as a global sporting and major events capital and the event is a key pillar of Melbourne’s and Australia’s international sporting calendar.

“Beyond the direct benefits to Melbourne and Victoria arising out of Formula 1’s decision, the contract extension until 2025 also provides benefits and confidence for Victoria’s events industry and the associated supplier base to the AGPC.”

Such is the reputation of the Australian Grand Prix, key personnel from the Australian Grand Prix Corporation and the Confederation of Australian Motor Sport will also be involved in assisting the development of the Vietnam Grand Prix in 2020.

CAMS recently opened expressions of interest for suitably qualified CAMS Accredited Officials to participate in the development of Vietnam officials.

Subject to confirmation from the FIA World Motor Sport Council, the Formula 1® Rolex Australian Grand Prix 2020 will kick off next season from 12–15 March.