Upgrades for Melbourne’s Albert Park ahead of 2026 Australian Formula 1 Grand Prix

Albert Park will undergo a massive upgrade ahead of next year’s Melbourne Grand Prix, with a new pit building and improvements to the surrounding precinct.

The new building will include seven indoor sport courts, two more than are currently on site, and improved clubrooms for clubs using the outdoor fields.

The upgrade will include 14 garages, race control, and a race administration and media centre. The Paddock Club will also have an expanded capacity of 5,000 patrons a day, offering hospitality experiences and viewing spots along the main straight.

With the race locked in until 2037, Victorian Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events, Steve Dimopoulos advised “fans flock to Victoria from around the world for our Formula 1 Grand Prix, filling local hotels, restaurants, pubs and businesses, and we intend to keep it that way.

“This massive upgrade is a win for the local community - more space for community sport, more courts, better changerooms and park upgrades and a sporting venue Albert Park locals can enjoy.”

Australian Grand Prix Corporation Chief Executive, Travis Auld added “in addition to playing a critical role in delivering a world-class event, this exciting new chapter will ensure this facility becomes an asset for the community to enjoy outside of the race period for years to come.”

The 2025 Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix welcomed more than 465,000 fans through the gates across the four days, boosting hotel occupancy in central Melbourne to around 94% the night before the race.

For further information on the project, visit development.vic.gov.au/projects/albert-park.

Image. Credit: Development Victoria