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MELBOURNE - The Australian Grand Prix received an unexpected boost when it was announced overnight it would be the opening race of the Formula One season next year.
Race organisers originally believed they would have to settle for the second race on the calendar after a change of dates to allow the popular V8 Supercars to return to Albert Park.
Australian Grand Prix chairman Ron Walker said the Melbourne race was returned to its pole position after the FIA was able to avoid date clashes with other international series.
Formula One boss Bernie Ecclestone reinstated the Australian race, which has been the season opener every year except last year when it was moved due to the Commonwealth Games.
"Bernie in the end decided that it was best to go back to where we were," Walker said.
"It is a surprise but a very welcome one."
The F1 season will open at Albert Park on March 16 with the second race in Malaysia on March 23 and the third in Bahrain on April 6.
Meanwhile, France will remain on the calendar next year while
Singapore and Valencia will make their debuts, subject to circuit approval, on September 28 and August 24 respectively.
Canada, now the lone North American race after the removal of the US Grand Prix, is listed as provisional with a June 8 date.
The International Automobile Federation (FIA) yesterday published a calendar with 18 races, one more than this year.
- AAP
