Westacott to end AGPC reign

Andrew Westacott’s long stint leading the Australian Grand Prix Corporation will end after the 2023 Rolex Australian Grand Prix.

Westacott has been the AGPC CEO since February 2011, but will not seek another term following the conclusion of his current contract, which runs until June 30 2023.

He will depart with a lasting legacy as AGPC’s longest serving CEO having overseen 15 Formula 1 Australian Grands Prix and Australian Motorcycle Grands Prix at Melbourne and Phillip Island respectively.

Westacott has acted under all of AGPC’s three chairman, Ron Walker AC CBE, John Harnden AM and Paul Little AO, plus five different Government Ministers in Tim Holding, Louise Asher, John Eren, Martin Pakula and Steve Dimopoulos.

He arrived at the AGPC as general manager – operations in 2006 before performing the role of deputy CEO ahead of his promotion to CEO in 2011.

During that time Westacott has overseen many big moments from Casey Stoner’s 2011 world championship and last of six straight home wins, Daniel Ricciardo’s incredible Red Bull arrival in 2014 and the significant track modifications and resurfacing at Albert Park, but most dauntingly managing the chaotic arrival of COVID-19 and being forced to call off the 2020 race.

Despite the tough times during the pandemic, he show the event returned bigger than ever in 2022 with unprecedented crowds packing the Albert Park precinct and ticket sales for next year’s race are already strong.

Westacott has witnessed numerous contract extensions for both races with the Formula 1 staying Victoria until 2037 and the MotoGP racing in the same state until 2026.

Australian Grand Prix Corporation CEO Andrew Westacott fronts the media after the unexpected cancellation of the 2020 Australian Formula 1 Grand Prix. Photo by Mark Sutton / Sutton Images

The departing CEO said he reflects on his 16 years at the AGPC with “immense pride”.

“It’s been a source of immense pride to be able to work for the Australian Grand Prix Corporation for so many years and to work so closely with the wonderful AGPC team and all those involved in our major events industry, including those at Formula One and MotoGP,” Westacott said.

“Thirty events, a few cancellations along the way and record-breaking crowds in 2022 have all provided special moments.

“The contrasting years between the start of Covid in 2020 and the way in which we opened Melbourne to the sporting world in 2022 both produced massive memories that I’ll remember forever.”

AGPC chairman Little said Westacott was a strong leader.

“Andrew has led AGPC through a transformative period and is to be commended on his outstanding contribution to motorsport and tourism in Victoria,” he said.

“He leaves AGPC positioned for continued global success and I wish him all the very best in his future endeavours.”

Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events, Steve Dimopoulos, said Westacott’s work was a major factor behind Victoria’s world renowned reputation. 

“On behalf of the Victorian Government, I congratulate Andrew on leading AGPC and their two international events, both of which have brought considerable value to Victoria for decades,” he said. 

“I wish Andrew all the very best for the future.”

Westacott’s final Rolex Australian Grand Prix as CEO will take place on April 2.

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