Up next is the Austrian F1 Grand Prix, which comes at a delicate moment. We are almost halfway through the season, and this is the time when teams either evolve or fall apart. There’s been plenty of talks that Austria might pinpoint to us which teams and drivers will continue to pursue the top of the classifications and which are going to wait for the season to end and prepare for the following year.
It’s the reason why Austrian GP is usually full of drama. The pressure on the teams and the drivers peaks at the Red Bull Ring, where they have to go full throttle and save the season. Otherwise, their jobs and reputations could be engendered.
Our fastest three in first practice 👏
🥇 George
🥈 Max
🥉 Oscar#F1 #AustrianGP pic.twitter.com/81w1Qco0ww— Formula 1 (@F1) June 27, 2025
Mercedes showed up during the previous race, and to be honest, only for those who are inexperienced, this was a surprise. We mentioned in our last preview that the German team showed improvement and that they just might be the dark horses for the podium.
Race Specifications
- This is the 44th Austrian Grand Prix.
- The track name is Red Bull Ring, and its length is 4.326 km (2.688 miles).
- Race length is 307.018 km (190.772 miles)
- We have 71 laps in total.
Top 4 Austrian Grand Prix Moments
Lando’s Attack on Max Verstappen
Last year’s Austrian Grand Prix indicated Lando Norris’ rise. How? He was after Max Verstappen so furiously that, in the end, it cost them both the podium. Norris wanted to overtake Max, but the champ didn’t allow that, in a bit risky manner, which resulted in Norris’ crash and Verstappen’s trip to the pit.
Max’s Domination Over Leclerc
It’s no secret that we here believe Charles Leclerc is an overrated driver. Upon arriving at F1, he had a higher pedigree than most of the drivers, and Max Verstappen was among the first to expose Ferrari’s driver. In 2019 Max stole the win from Leclerc in the finish, outclassing the guy from Monaco.
Schumacher “Stealing” the Win From Barichello
In 2022, Rubens Barichello led the way at the Austrian Grand Prix. Michael Schumacher was behind him. Then came Ferrari’s box, with Jean Todt calling the Brazilian and ordering him to let his teammate win this one. In the end, the fans booed Schumacher despite this being his backyard.
Mercedes’ Collision
In 1999, we witnessed one of the wildest occurrences at the time. Two Mercedes collided and were eliminated due to an accident. Mika Hakkinen and David Coulthard were next to one another following the start, and instead of being collegiate, Coulthard hit Hakkinen, ending their Austrian GP adventure.
Austrian GP Formula 1 History
Last year’s winner was Max Verstappen, who is the most successful driver here, having won four times. Jo Siffert has three, just like Alain Prost. When looking at the constructors, Ferrari is the best with 7 triumphs, one more than McLaren and Mercedes.
With 10 victories, Ford is the most honored engine manufacturer, Mercedes has 9, and Ferrari has 7.
Predictions
The circuit is called the Red Bull Ring. Enough said. This is Max’s home, and we expect to see him fired up to defend the home court. Undoubtedly, the champion will have massive support from the stands, yet also very motivated rivals on the track. Remember, it’s not only about McLaren now, as Mercedes has apparently found its groove. They have the momentum and to be honest, Austria is kinda their backyard as well.
Still, we believe that Verstappen has the best chance of winning. He is the most dominant driver at this track in the last couple of years, and he should continue with that tradition.
Here are the F1 odds for all those willing to place some bets.