F1 Australian Grand Prix preview: Curves, swerves and a Williams wager

While last year's race was sloppy, it was the exception, not the rule – the Australian Grand Prix is generally known for being a positive, enjoyable experience both on and off the track. Much of that comes down to the track itself. Melbourne's Albert Park is a beautiful, sweeping street-circuit venue featuring lagoon and skyline views. It's one of the best-attended Grands Prix in F1; fans come in droves to cheer on Australian drivers like RB's Daniel Ricciardo and McLaren's Oscar Piastri.

This year, there's a third Aussie on the grid, albeit an unofficial one: Kick Sauber's Valtteri Bottas. The Finnish driver has been coined an "honorary Australian" thanks to his long-term relationship with Australian cycling champion Tiffany Cromwell. He's welcomed as a hometown hero in Melbourne and leans into his Australian side whenever in town.

This year's Australian Grand Prix headlines revolve around an unexpected team: Williams. After lead driver Alex Albon crashed his vehicle beyond repair in the first practice session of the weekend, Williams had to make a choice. Should it allow American driver Logan Sargeant to drive his vehicle as planned, forcing Albon, its best driver, to sit out the race? Or should it force Sargeant to give up his place for Albon with the knowledge that Albon was more likely to score points for the team? James Vowles, Williams' team principal, chose the latter and that decision has sent shock waves throughout F1.

"While Logan [Sargeant] should not have to suffer from a mistake that he did not make, every race counts when the midfield is tighter than ever," Vowles said. "So we have made the call based on our best potential to score points this weekend."

On one hand, the decision is logical and understandable. Williams does not have the money to have a spare car for these scenarios and it won't get that money in the future without scoring Grand Prix points. On the other, it's incredibly unfair for Sargeant. He's understandably frustrated, calling it "the hardest moment I can remember in my career," but will miss out on a crucial race for the benefit of his team. Albon is the stronger driver of the two, but he made the mistake. Sargeant didn't. It feels awfully rough that Sargeant is the one shouldering the consequences.

While Red Bull is expected to dominate in Australia, there's a close battle heating up between Ferrari, McLaren and Mercedes for second. All three teams look sharp this weekend and could push toward the top of the grid. With its fast corners and cool track temperatures, the difference should come down to grip: the team that delivers it consistently should leapfrog the others. Ferrari looks the most likely to come out on top after the weekend's practice sessions, but much can change over the course of a full-length Grand Prix.

The Australian Grand Prix will rev up on Saturday, 3/23 at 9:00pm PT.