Formula 1 Preview: Austrian Grand Prix 2025

Dates: June 27–29, 2025
Location: Red Bull Ring, Spielberg, Austria
Round: 11 of the 2025 F1 World Championship

The Red Bull Ring is a high-speed, undulating circuit nestled in the Styrian Alps. Its short lap time and elevation changes make it deceptively technical. Key overtaking zones include Turns 3 and 4, while Turn 1 often catches drivers out with its tricky braking zone.

Key Storylines to Watch

1. McLaren Civil War: Norris vs. Piastri

After a controversial clash in Canada that ended Lando Norris’ race and allowed Oscar Piastri to extend his championship lead, tensions are simmering.

Norris, who earned his first F1 podium at this very track, will be desperate to bounce back and close the 22-point gap to his teammate.

Piastri, meanwhile, has shown maturity and consistency, and may now shift toward a more conservative, title-defending mindset.

2. Mercedes Momentum

George Russell’s win in Montreal, backed by a podium from rookie Kimi Antonelli, signals a resurgence for Mercedes.

Russell also won the 2024 Austrian GP after a dramatic Verstappen-Norris collision, making him a strong contender again this year.

3. Red Bull’s Home Advantage

Max Verstappen has won five times at the Red Bull Ring and will be eager to reclaim dominance on home soil.

However, rumors swirl around Verstappen’s future, with speculation that an exit clause in his contract could be triggered this weekend.

4. Ferrari’s Upgrade Deadline

Ferrari struggled in Canada, and pressure is mounting on team boss Fred Vasseur.

Promised upgrades are expected to debut in Austria—critical for Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz to stay in the title hunt.

Tyre Strategy & Conditions

Tyre Compounds:

Hard: C3

Medium: C4

Soft: C5

The track surface is abrasive and aged, demanding careful tyre management. Expect a one-stop strategy to be the baseline, but undercut potential is high due to short lap times.

Weekend Schedule (PDT)

Session	Date	Time (PDT)
Practice 1	Fri, Jun 27	4:25 AM
Practice 2	Fri, Jun 27	7:55 AM
Practice 3	Sat, Jun 28	3:25 AM
Qualifying	Sat, Jun 28	6:55 AM
Race	Sun, Jun 29	5:55 AM

Note: This is not a Sprint weekend, so the traditional format applies.

Top Contenders:

George Russell – Defending winner, in form, and Mercedes is surging.

Max Verstappen – Home hero with a dominant track record.

Oscar Piastri – Quietly consistent and now leading the title race.

Dark Horses:

Lando Norris – Motivated to rebound and historically strong at Spielberg.

Charles Leclerc – If Ferrari’s upgrades deliver, he could surprise.

Fantasy Tip: Prioritize drivers with strong qualifying pace—track position is crucial here due to short lap times and limited overtaking windows.