Clarification: Albert Park pit lane speed to remain at 80km/h

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The FIA has issued a clarification regarding the pit lane speed limit for this weekend’s season-opening Australian Grand Prix at Albert Park Circuit.

Contrary to earlier reports, there will be no reduction from 80km/h to 60km/h. Formula 1’s governing body has confirmed that the pit lane speed limit will remain at the standard 80km/h for the event.

Initial suggestions of a lower limit emerged amid concerns over congestion following the expansion of the Formula 1 grid to 11 teams, with Cadillac joining the championship.

Australian Grand Prix chief events officer Tom Mottram had indicated that a temporary reduction could be introduced to help manage tighter operating conditions in the pit lane.

“We’ve had to reduce our pitlane speed from 80km/h to 60km/h, just because it will be a little bit tighter for teams to pull in,” he said.

However, the FIA has since clarified that no such change will be implemented for this year’s race weekend.

The confirmation removes any potential strategic shake-up a slower pit lane might have created, with teams now preparing for the Melbourne opener under the usual 80km/h parameters.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.