Formula 1 has confirmed that Australia will again host the season-opening grand prix next year, with the event scheduled for mid-March.
Australia’s Albert Park Street Circuit in Melbourne has traditionally hosted the opening round of each season since joining the calendar in 1996.
It has only not held that honour in 2006 and 2010, and the event’s current contract with Formula 1 runs through 2026.
On Saturday the event’s position as 2020 season-opener was confirmed for the weekend of March 12 to 15, mirroring the 2019 schedule.
Australia is set to be the first stop on a 21-race schedule in 2020, with Vietnam and the Netherlands joining the roster and Spain and Germany understood to be dropping from the calendar.
The full schedule for 2020 has not yet been revealed.
“We are pleased to announce that, as has been the case for many years now, the next FIA Formula 1 World Championship season will get underway in Melbourne,” said Formula 1 chief Chase Carey.
“The Albert Park circuit is one of the most popular venues on the calendar, much appreciated by everyone who works in Formula 1.
“The enthusiastic reception from the Australian fans makes this round really unique and special.
“There can be no better place to start the 2020 season, which will be significant as the sport will celebrate its 70th anniversary.
“We are also pleased that Rolex, who have been one of our Global Partners for many years, will continue to be the title sponsor of the 2020 Australian Grand Prix.”
