F1 sets new red flag record at chaotic grand prix

The 2023 Australian Grand Prix will forever be etched in F1's history books as the most disrupted race the sport has ever witnessed. 

On this day three years ago, across 58 laps at Albert Park, three red flags punctuated proceedings in a chaotic event from Melbourne.

The carnage began early when Alex Albon crashed heavily at Turn 6 on lap eight, scattering gravel and debris across the circuit. 

Kevin Magnussen's collision with the wall at Turn 2 on lap 55 triggered the second stoppage when his right rear tyre detached and littered the track with fragments. With just four laps remaining, the race appeared destined for a frantic sprint to the chequered flag.

Instead, it descended into further chaos. The final restart on lap 57 saw multiple collisions erupt simultaneously. 

Carlos Sainz made contact with Fernando Alonso, triggering a chain reaction that collected both Alpine drivers, Pierre Gasly forcing team-mate Esteban Ocon into the barrier, whilst Logan Sargeant ran into the back of Nyck de Vries. 

The resulting debris field prompted officials to halt proceedings for a third time with just one lap remaining.

Max Verstappen emerged victorious ahead of Lewis Hamilton and Alonso, though even the Dutchman questioned the race director's approach. 

"They created the problems themselves," he remarked afterwards. Alonso, initially frustrated by losing track position, branded the regulations "stupid."

Prior to 2023, only six races in F1's history had experienced multiple red flags, but never more than two.

The 2023 Australian Grand Prix set a new record and the race was ultimately forced a finish behind the Safety Car rather than in racing conditions.