2024 Australian GP: Key Details as Formula 1 Heads 'Down Under', Including Ricciardo's Resurgence

• The 2024 Australian Grand Prix is next on the Formula 1 race calendar
• The race at Albert Park could largely impact the seasons of many teams
• Sports Brief looks at some of the critical details ahead of the Australian GP

The 2024 Formula 1 season rolls on with another pulsating race on the horizon.

The Australian Grand Prix, known for its chaotic nature in recent years, is race number three on the 2024 calendar.

Several teams are eager to improve on their performances from the opening races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the Grand Prix 'down under'.

While the off-track controversies that plagued the sport earlier in the year seem to have subsided, the focus now shifts to which team can challenge the dominance of Red Bull.

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Both drivers of the Austrian outfit secured first and second place in the first two races.

Nonetheless, as Albert Park shapes up to host the rumble through race weekend, Sports Brief takes a look at three things to pay a keen look at at the Grand Prix.

Key things to note ahead at the Australian Grand Prix

Mercedes' resurgence

Albert Park has proven to be a good stomping ground for Mercedes in recent years. The German constructor has ended up finishing on the podium in the last two races organized at the circuit.

Even more impressive was the fact that the Brackley team secured their first podium of the 2023 season in Australia.

As Mercedes grapples with a challenging start to the current season, a race at Albert Park might just provide the spark needed to regain their competitive edge.

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Perez’s gap behind Verstappen

Sergio Perez is poised to narrow the gap to Max Verstappen at the upcoming race in Albert Park. After finishing 22 seconds behind his teammate in Bahrain, the Mexican driver improved his performance, trailing the champion by only eight seconds in the Saudi GP.

In a recent interview conducted by Planet F1, the 33-year-old hinted that he has utilised the two-week break to work closely with the team in Milton Keynes. 'Checo' has also expressed confidence in the results he aims to achieve in this weekend's race.

While the race day performance of both drivers remains uncertain, it is worth noting that the gap between the teammates could be further reduced during the race.

Daniel Ricciardo’s resurgence

Leading up to the Australian GP, much attention has been on the discussions surrounding Daniel Ricciardo's abilities.

As reported by Sports Illustrated, 1980 Formula 1 champion, Alan Jones, suggested that the 34-year-old driver might be past his prime - a remark that seemed to have stirred a reaction from the Australian driver.

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Ricciardo was rumoured to be in contention for the Red Bull seat in the 2025 season. However, it must be noted that his recent performances have left much to be desired.

The former McLaren driver will be eager to make an impression in his home Grand Prix, and his performance in the Visa CashApp RB (VCARB) car will undoubtedly be one to watch this weekend.

Drivers with the most podiums in Australia

Sports Brief previously listed the F1 drivers with the most podium finishes at the Australian Grand Prix.

Lewis Hamilton leads the pack when it comes to 'down under', followed by legend, Michael Schumacher.