Australian GP contract extended, new boss to replace Andrew Westacott

Jamie Woodhouse
The 2022 Australian Grand Prix start. April 2022.

The cars launch from the grid at the start of the Australian Grand Prix. April 2022.

The Australian GP has secured a fresh contract extension, but the 2023 staging will be boss Andrew Westacott’s last in charge.

The Australian Grand Prix is one of Formula 1’s long-standing stops on the calendar, becoming a World Championship event in 1985 with Albert Park serving as the sole host since 1996.

And we can now look forward to even more Formula 1 visits to the venue, with confirmation coming from the Victoria State Government that the circuit’s deal has been extended from 2035 to 2037.

Westacott though is not intent on sticking around to oversee those events as it was announced that the 2023 Australian GP will be his last as CEO of the Australian Grand Prix Corporation.

He is set to exit the role, which he has held since 2011, on June 30, with no word yet on a successor.

The Albert Park track was redesigned ahead of the 2022 Australian GP, having largely been unaltered since 1996, with Westacott heavily involved in that process.

The event marked Formula 1’s return to Australia following the COVID-enforced cancellations of the 2020 and 2021 stagings.

“It’s been a source of immense pride to be able to work for the Australian Grand Prix Corporation for so many years and to work so closely with the wonderful AGPC team and all those involved in our major events industry, including those at Formula 1 and MotoGP,” said Westacott.

“Thirty events, a few cancellations along the way and record-breaking crowds in 2022 have all provided special moments.

“The contrasting years between the start of COVID in 2020 and the way in which we opened Melbourne to the sporting world in 2022 both produced massive memories that I’ll remember forever.”

Paul Little, AGPC Chairman added: “Andrew has led AGPC through a transformative period and is to be commended on his outstanding contribution to motorsport and tourism in Victoria.

“He leaves AGPC positioned for continued global success and I wish him all the very best in his future endeavours.”

The 2023 Australian Grand Prix with serve as Round 3 of a 23-piece calendar, with race day on April 2.

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