Australian Grand Prix schedule released

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The Australian GP organisers have released the official schedule for the event which kicks off the 2017 Formula 1 season in Melbourne on March 26.

Festivities will get underway on Friday, March 24 with the first free practice session scheduled to take place from 12h00 to 13h30 local time (01h00 to 02h30 GMT).

Qualifying will start at 17h00 local (06h00 GMT) on Saturday.

Sunday's 58-lap race will begin at 16h00 local time (05h00 GMT)

The Australian GP organisers have boosted safety in several areas of the Albert Park track in response to the potential increase in speeds of the 2017 cars.

Additional Tecpro barriers have been installed in specific areas while Turns One, Six and Fourteen will have their current tyre walls doubled in depth, with added tube inserts to absorb any impact.

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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.