The Austrian Grand Prix is back and ready to take the world by orange storm in 2023! Why orange? Because the race at Red Bull Ring will be memorable. First, we are heading to Red Bull’s homeland. We will be paying tribute to the influence of Dietrich Mateschitz, the company’s co-founder. With their 100th Grand Prix victory, the Red Bull team is going to Austria as the only fifth team to achieve the milestone. Second, we’re setting for the Formula 1 weekend via Sprint format. Holding the F1 sprint at a track that encourages great racing, plus tricky weather conditions play a part in the weekend. However, there are many reasons why the Austrian Grand Prix 2023 sets as a thrilling event. Let’s explore the main of them.
Historical Insight into the Austrian Grand Prix
The Austrian Grand Prix has a storied past that dates back to its inaugural race in 1963 at Zeltweg Airfield. The scenic Österreichring, nestled in the picturesque Styrian mountains, was the stage for the first Grand Prix held in Austria. A non-championship event quickly gained popularity among drivers and fans alike. Australian F1 champion Jack Brabham won the race.
However, in the construction of the Red Bull Ring in 1996, the Austrian Grand Prix found its home. The Red Bull Ring, formerly the A1-Ring, brought excitement to the race with its challenging layout and stunning backdrop. Since then, the Austrian Grand Prix has become a must-see event for motorsport enthusiasts worldwide.
Austrian Grand Prix trivia and fun facts
Another interesting fact is that the Austrian Grand Prix is one of the few races on the calendar to have changed its name multiple times. At various historical points, it has been known as the Austrian Grand Prix, the European Grand Prix, and the Styrian Grand Prix.
Key moments and memorable races
Over the years, the Austrian Grand Prix has witnessed its fair share of unforgettable moments and epic battles. This race has provided fans countless memories that will be etched forever, from nail-biting overtakes to dramatic last-lap showdowns.
One of the most iconic moments in the history of the Austrian Grand Prix came in 2003 when Ferrari’s Rubens Barrichello and McLaren’s Kimi Räikkönen engaged in a thrilling battle for second place. The race approached its final lap. Barrichello held a slim lead over Räikkönen, but the young Finn was determined to snatch position from the jaws of defeat. With a stunning display of skill and determination, Räikkönen dared to pass Barrichello. He crossed the finish line in second place by a mere 0.5 seconds.
Did you know?
The Legends of the Austrian Grand Prix
Throughout its history, the Austrian Grand Prix has been graced by the presence of legendary drivers who have left an indelible mark on the sport. From the likes of Niki Lauda and Alain Prost to more recent stars such as Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen, the Austrian Grand Prix has seen some of the most extraordinary talents in Formula 1 showcase their skills on its hallowed tarmac.
One driver who stands out from the rest is the late Ayrton Senna. Senna’s relationship with the Austrian Grand Prix was tumultuous, marked by triumph and tragedy. In 1984, Senna claimed his first victory at the race, showcasing his talent and determination. However, it was in 1994 that tragedy struck when Senna tragically lost his life during the San Marino Grand Prix, which took place just a week before the Austrian Grand Prix. The race in Austria became a somber affair as the motorsport community mourned the loss of one of its greatest icons.
Today, Max Verstappen is the undeniable hero of the Austrian Grand Prix. Being a Red Bull driver, the grandstands have met their favorite with loud applause.
Austrian Grand Prix 2023: What to expect
The Austrian Grand Prix 2023 promises to be a spectacle like no other for a few reasons:
#1 Sprint
Despite the rules and regulations of the Sprint in Formula 1 changing a bit, it is still an exciting event that may shake the top standings.
After the entertaining first sprint race in 2023 in Baku, Ferrari ended Red Bull’s run of pole positions courtesy of Charles Leclerc. For sure, they set to repeat the success at the Red Bull Ring.
So, remember to mark your calendars. Friday’s set is the usual one-hour qualification session to decide the grid for the Austrian Grand Prix on Sunday, and those positions will be locked in.
On Saturday, the standalone Sprint day includes the Sprint shootout – a shorter qualifying session but still split into three parts – that sets the grid for the Sprint race. While Sprint itself sets after a few hours on the same day, Saturday.
#2 Chasing the Red Bulls
Even though Red Bull’s Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez are shoulders above the others regarding RB19 cars’ pace, three teams at the grid are fast enough to provide the dense battle between Ferrari, Aston Martin, and Mercedes.
Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz jr proved their pace enough to expect them at the podium at Austrian Grand Prix, especially when the case is about Sprint. The distance issue may be crucial for Ferrari, however. Although showing they had the same competitive level as their main rivals previously, there are high possibilities that Aston Martin would be even faster at the Red Bull Ring.
Fernando Alonso has demonstrated incredible speed since the start of the 2023 Formula 1 season. However, all the Spaniard fans are excitedly waiting for his victory for a significant reason. Aston Martin got an update that will likely improve their cars’ pace. So, no less than a podium place by Aston Martin’s drivers, is what we also expect to see in Austria.
The race in Montreal revealed that Mercedes is still another key player. Thus, after Lewis Hamilton finished third, Mercedes fans’ hopes rose. Moreover, Hamilton himself only added fuel to the fire. He hinted to the media that there is ‘more to come.’ One thing is for sure: Mercedes cars have the speed and enough to race against Aston Martin and Ferrari, which also sets them into the game for the Austrian Grand Prix 2023 podium.
#3 Weather factor
Although the weather forecast concerns dry weather for Sunday’s race, the rain will touch the Saturday Sprint. The possibility of rain holds an average of 50%. What does it mean in terms of Formula 1?
It means the additional problems with tires first. Second, the more experienced driver would gain the advantage. In fact, Fernando Alonso has proven his power on a wet road surface like no other. Third, in terms of short distances complexed with the rain, the drivers from the middle f the grid also get the chance. Considering the above, Haas’s Kevin Magnussen and Nico Hülkenberg are also in the game in the Sprint race.
Besides, Williams drivers can surprise at Austrian Grand Prix 2023. Williams also had a particularly encouraging weekend in Canada. James Vowles’ team put in a massive effort to ensure they had a major upgrade ready for Alex Albon’s car at the last race, and Albon duly delivered with a stunning drive to seventh place.
Overall, the atmosphere will be electric as the roaring engines and the crowd’s cheers blend to create an unforgettable experience.
Austrian Grand Prix 2023 Schedule
The full schedule is available on the Formula 1 official website.
Conclusion
The Austrian Grand Prix is more than just a race; it is a celebration, especially for Red Bull F1 fans, as Austria is their homeland. From the iconic moments that have left fans in awe to the untold stories that unfold behind the scenes, this race embodies the spirit of motorsport.
As the Austrian Grand Prix 2023 approaches, anticipation builds, and excitement fills the air. The world will once again turn its attention to the Red Bull Ring, where legends will be made and history will be written. So, mark your calendars, prepare your flags, and join us as we witness the untold stories and legends of the Austrian Grand Prix unfold.
Leave a Comment