Australia’s passion for Formula One is booming, with record attendances at Albert Park defying rising costs and a lack of success on the track
Australians are in love with Formula One. That was clear from the record-breaking crowd that packed into Albert Park for the latest edition of the Australian Grand Prix. Twelve months since the motor sport returned to Melbourne following a pandemic-induced hiatus, Covid-19 was all but forgotten. With almost half a million spectators packing into the venue over four days, the Netflix Drive to Survive effect was on full display.
Increased ticket prices, inclement weather and the rising cost of living did nothing to deter a historic attendance. A changing demographic was also evident: more women, families and young children (entertained by a play area behind one grandstand) and a heightened emphasis on accessible viewing options for fans with a disability. No longer is the Grand Prix synonymous solely with heavy drinking male rev-heads. Kylie Minogue and Kelly Slater made appearances.