World champion Max Verstappen is eyeing a “smooth weekend” to build on his victory in Saudi Arabia, but is wary about a revamped Albert Park circuit as Formula One returns to Melbourne after a two-year hiatus.

The Red Bull driver, 24, was a relieved man after battling to a thrilling win ahead of Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc in Jeddah last month. It was a satisfying triumph for Verstappen after Monaco’s Leclerc clinched the season-opening grand prix in Bahrain where the Dutchman failed to finish.