Formula 1 drivers largely praised the changes to the Albert Park for this weekend’s Australian Grand Prix, saying they expect it will improve the racing.
As well as removing one slow chicane from the circuit, the track operators have widened several corners and tightened turn 11, with the goal of encouraging more overtaking.
Daniel Ricciardo, who gave input into the changes at his home track, said he expects a livelier race after his first day of running on the revamped course.
“I think it will be better,” said the McLaren driver. “Is it going to be 10 times better? Probably not to that extent, but I think it will be some degree better. I think also complemented by an extra DRS zone and the cars that can follow a bit better this year.
“If there’s not more overtaking I think you’re going to see at least closer racing and more kind of nose-to-tail [action].
“I think we’ll get a fun one Sunday, but I’m cautious not to oversell it because I honestly don’t know what the…