The F1 ringmaster, Bernie Eccelstone, has said that he would like to extend the Melbourne Grand Prix Circuits contract as it expires in 2015.
The circuit that surrounds the Albert Park lake was first introduced onto the F1 calendar in 1996 and will be the opening Grand Prix on the 17th of March. However, the local government and some resident groups have questioned renewing the contract because of the cost to the taxpayer.
[LEFT_IMG=4f620b7367cdae51ce96c1d2700bb54f80e72c6623005][/LEFT_IMG]The government havent said yet if they are interested in renewing the contract, but Bernie Ecclestone seems happy to do so.
The 82 year old said, We hope were going to be in Melbourne forever. Were happy with Melbourne and Id be happy to sign a 50-year contract. We dont have a problem with Melbourne.
I understand we do get a little bit of criticism. I dont know why. You start wondering are we really wanted in Melbourne?
It appears to be [wanted] now; whenever these sorts of things happen Im told, Dont be silly about that, its just one or two people making a noise. Were happy for Formula One to be there.
Before the 1996 season, the Australian Grand Prix was staged at the Adelaide Circuit. Other circuits have shown an interest in taking the Grand Prix from Melbourne.
We get proposals from other parts, but were happy in Melbourne, Ecclestone continued.
Everybody loves Australia and loves Australian people, and its good to be there
and Melbourne, in itself, is a nice place.
Order your 2013 F1 merchandise before the first Grand Prix here!
Column: Melbourne to stay on the F1 calendar forever?
- Published on 27 Feb 2013 19:19
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- By: Kenney Lybeer
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Bahrain
Formula 1 Calendar - 2026
Date
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Spain
Circuit de Catalunya
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Bahrain
Bahrain International Circuit
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Bahrain
Bahrain International Circuit
6 - Mar 8
Australia
Albert Park
13 - Mar 15
27 - Mar 29
Japan
Circuit Suzuka
10 - Apr 12
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Bahrain International Circuit
17 - Apr 19
Saudi Arabia
Jeddah Street Circuit
1 - May 3
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Miami International Autodrome
22 - May 24
Canada
Gilles Villeneuve
5 - Jun 7
Monaco
Monte Carlo
12 - Jun 14
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Circuit de Catalunya
26 - Jun 28
Austria
Red Bull Ring
3 - Jul 5
United Kingdom
Silverstone
17 - Jul 19
Belgium
Spa-Francorchamps
24 - Jul 26
Hungary
Hungaroring
21 - Aug 23
Netherlands
Circuit Zandvoort
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