Australian GP layout to change for November race

Australian Grand Prix

Australian GP layout to change for November race

The Albert Park circuit will be resurfaced for the first time since 1995

Sam Hall

Wednesday 17 February 2021 14:00

The Australian Grand Prix circuit is to undergo a number of revisions ahead of November's race that will include a complete resurfacing for the first time since 1995.

Albert Park was scheduled to host the season-opener on March 21 but due to the ongoing restrictions in place surrounding the Covid-19 pandemic, it will stage the third-last race of the year on November 21.

The delay will allow for further development work to take place, with organisers opting to revise the layout.

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The heavy braking zone at turn nine is to be removed in favour of a high-speed sweeping chicane that follows the north-west shore of the lake.

That will allow drivers to follow more closely into the equally high-speed turn 11-12 complex.

Should the changes have the desired effect, this would increase the importance of the next braking point at turn 13 and the subsequent DRS zone.

To increase the potential for overtaking at this corner, the camber of turn 13 will be adjusted.

The hope is that this change will alter the current nature of the corner, with alternate lines and opportunities opening up.

The changes are described as the second phase of the upgrade project, as the first involved changes to the pit complex which have already been completed.

Work on the second phase begins on Monday and is expected to be completed by July.

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