F1 2019: 5 Early Predictions for the Australian Grand Prix

#3 Ricciardo sets the Fastest Lap

F1 Winter Testing in Barcelona - Day Two

A last minute announcement ahead of the Australian GP has taken the F1 world by storm, after the FIA announced that for the first time since 1959 they will be awarding points for the Fastest Lap.

This point will only be available for drivers who finish in the top ten and acts as an extra incentive for drivers to push themselves to get the edge over their rivals. It's only a single point, therefore it may not seem like much, however the title has been won on fastest lap points before like in 1958 with Mike Hawthorne winning by 1 point.

The Formula E series has also seen points awarded for the fastest lap and it has certainly made a difference there.

For the first time in 60 years in Australia, we see the Honey Badger being the one to nab this bonus point. His Renault is far less likely to get on the podium than the Red Bull he used to drive, therefore don't hold your breath waiting for a hometown podium.

However, Ricciardo does indeed have a machine good enough to be in the top 10, and in his hometown an extra tenth or two due to support from the crowd may be enough to snap up the fastest lap and get on the board with one extra point.