Albert Park in early autumn carried the mingled scents of eucalyptus, sun-warmed grass, and the faint tang of race fuel drifting from the pit lane. The temporary paddock bustled with PR coordinators weaving between hospitality units, cables taped in neat lines underfoot, and camera crews pivoting to catch glimpses of drivers making their way to interviews. The bright green of the park framed the glittering structures of the Formula One setup, a contrast both jarring and magnetic. The invitation had arrived mid-race only weeks earlier, routed through official channels with little ceremony. The F1 media representative who relayed it had sounded almost amused, remarking offhand that no one ever says yes so quickly. Yet as the first free practice session drew crowds toward the barriers, word had already spread that a new figure was expected in the paddock. By Friday morning, glances toward the guest list came with a kind of watchful curiosity.