Australian Formula 1 Grand Prix preview

Bahrain proved nothing which is why the odds are as open as they are for the Australian Grand Prix.

The fastest times are being posted by Lewis Hamilton's Red Bull car, both in practice sessions and on the rare occasions cars experienced a dry Bahrain track.

If that's the case, he'll be out to prove he's the one to beat for the championship, taking note that the past four World Champions have been winners of the Melbourne event. At $7.50, it's tasty odds on what could be considered a realistic 3-1 chance.

Webber's odds can only be explained by the media hype in Australia which has surrounded his two victories. Notably the man who was not overly liked by the media has all of a sudden been labelled a national hero by 60 Minutes.

Isn't it odd how the worm turns?

Anyway, here's the latest frame from Sportingbet:

PUNTERS KEEN ON WEBBER'S CHANCES

Aussie punters are getting on board Mark Webber’s attempt to win his maiden Australian GP with the Red Bull driver backed in from $13 to $8 at Sportingbet Australia.

Sportingbet Australia CEO Michael Sullivan said Webber was the only one punters wanted in the lead up to the race.

“There’s a sprinkle of money for Sebastian Vettel and Michael Schumacher but we’re writing six bets on Webber for every bet on any opponent at this stage,” said Sullivan.

“He’s looked nice and relaxed since he’s been in Australia and the punters think he’s a huge chance on Sunday.”

Fernando Alonso heads betting at $3, ahead of Vettel at $3.50 and Felipe Massa at $6.50.

Seven time World Champion Michael Schumacher is at $21 to mark his return to Australia with a win.

AUSTRALIAN F1 GP
Sportingbet Australia Market
Fernando Alonso [FER] 3.00
Sebastian Vettel [RED] 3.50
Felipe Massa [FER] 6.50
Lewis Hamilton [McL] 7.50
Mark Webber [RED] 8.00
Jenson Button [McL] 17.00
Nico Rosberg [MER] 21.00
Michael Schumacher [MER] 21.00
Adrian Sutil [FIN] 67.00
Robert Kubica [REN] 81.00
Rubens Barrichello [WIL] 81.00
Others 101.00 Plus