F1 Australian Grand Prix to Reintroduce Post-Race Track Walk

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F1 Australian Grand Prix to Reintroduce Post-Race Track Walk

Synopsis

The Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix has announced the lifting of the ban on post-race track walks starting in 2025, allowing fans to celebrate the winners up close. The decision follows a review of fan behavior after safety concerns in 2023. Organizers look forward to a record turnout for the upcoming event.

Key Takeaways

  • Post-race track walks will return in 2025 after a ban due to safety incidents.
  • The Australian Grand Prix Corporation praised fan behavior post-2024 race.
  • Fans will have access to the track to celebrate the winners.
  • Organizers expect a record crowd for the 2025 event.
  • Safety measures will be communicated to attendees in advance.

Sydney, Feb 26 (NationPress) The organizers of the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix have decided to reverse the ban on fans accessing the track after the race concludes.

This ban on the customary post-race track walk was introduced following an incident in 2023 where fans breached safety barriers to enter the Albert Park circuit before all competitors had completed the race.

Video footage from that event illustrated spectators being dangerously close to F1 cars while the race was still in progress. A safety review revealed that some attendees mistakenly believed the race had ended due to the cars moving slowly behind the Safety Car.

After the 2024 race, the Australian Grand Prix Corporation commended the conduct of fans and expressed intentions to reassess the ban, according to Xinhua.

“We’re excited to declare the return of the End of Race Track Walk for 2025. This is an extraordinary and beloved experience for fans globally, and at the end of this year's race, fans will once again have the opportunity to step onto the track to celebrate our 2025 champions.

“For fans planning to attend Race Day in 2025, keep an eye out - you will receive notifications ahead of this year’s event with details regarding how, when, and where to safely access the track,” the organizers stated.

Steve Dimopoulos, the Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events in Victoria, remarked on Wednesday that the resumption of the track walk would be thrilling for F1 enthusiasts, as reported by ABC News.

He mentioned that it will provide fans the chance to “get up close and personal” with the drivers and winning teams as they gather near the starting line, as well as at the podium and trophy presentation.

Earlier in February, organizers indicated their anticipation for the 2025 Australian F1 Grand Prix, scheduled for March 14-16, to surpass the record attendance of 452,055 set in 2024.

Nation Press