World First Race Format Announced

V8 Supercars fans are in for non-stop action at the 2014 Formula 1® Rolex Australian Grand Prix, with the Australian Grand Prix Corporation today announcing an all-new race format.

The format will be a world first for V8 Supercars and has been designed to ensure enthralling racing across all four races.

Each race will feature a double-file rolling start, which will create additional excitement, especially on the long run down the main straight into Turn One. Drivers will also line up side-by-side for any Safety Car restarts across the event.

In a unique tie-in with Formula One in 2014, the final race of the weekend will be worth double points, just like the final race of the 2014 FIA Formula One World Championship™ in Abu Dhabi.

Drivers won’t have a chance to relax in any of the first three races, with a rolling points system deciding the starting grid for each subsequent race.

Australian Grand Prix Corporation CEO Andrew Westacott is sure the new race format will provide V8 Supercar fans with a unique spectacle.

“There is plenty to look forward to for V8 Supercars fans at this year’s event. Not only do we have a brand new format, but Volvo has joined existing manufacturers Holden, Ford, Nissan and Mercedes for what is sure to be a gripping season-long battle,” Westacott said. 

“We are always working to refresh the entertainment offering and the new V8 Supercars race format is a great example of this in action, I’m sure we’re going to see some impressive performances across the event.” 

V8 Supercars CEO James Warburton was quick to show his support for the revamped format and is proud that V8 Supercars continue to play an important role at the Formula One event.

“This unique format for the 2014 Formula 1® Rolex Australian Grand Prix is something fans have never seen before. Double-file rolling starts and resumptions after safety cars and, double points in the final race really will raise the stakes,” Warburton said. 

“The Australian Grand Prix is a magnificent event, the atmosphere is electric and the combination of the world’s best open wheelers and touring cars on the same track is simply spectacular. All Australians should be very proud of this weekend that showcases Melbourne and Australia – the home of V8 Supercars, to the world.” 

Event V8 Ambassador Craig Lowndes welcomed the changes and expects the new format to make the racing even more competitive. 

“The new V8 Supercars race format at the Australian Grand Prix is sure to add excitement and action to the event,” Lowndes said. 

“Arriving at the first corner after a rolling start is certainly going to be interesting – I think it'll be more important than ever to be at the front of the field and out of trouble, but I’m already looking forward to the weekend.”

The 2014 Formula 1® Rolex Australian Grand Prix runs from March 13 to 16 in Melbourne. Tickets are available now.