THIS WEEK IN F1: 10 quiz questions on F1 history in Austria

Formula 1 History in Austria

Formula 1 first came to Austria in the early 1960s, with the first non-championship race at the Zeltweg Airfield in 1963. The Austrian Grand Prix became an official part of the Formula 1 World Championship in 1964, but the narrow and basic Zeltweg circuit only hosted a few races before being dropped.

A new, purpose-built circuit called the Österreichring opened in 1969 near Spielberg. This track became famous for its high speeds, sweeping corners, and beautiful setting in the Styrian hills. The Austrian Grand Prix returned in 1970 and stayed on the calendar through the 1970s and 1980s, producing many exciting races.

By the late 1980s, safety concerns led to the removal of the Österreichring from the Formula 1 schedule. In the 1990s, the circuit was rebuilt, shortened, and renamed the A1-Ring. Formula 1 returned to Austria in 1997 and raced at the A1-Ring until 2003.

After another break, Red Bull bought the circuit and carried out major renovations. It reopened as the Red Bull Ring in 2011. Formula 1 returned to Austria in 2014, and the Red Bull Ring has been a regular fixture ever since.

In 2020, the Red Bull Ring hosted two Formula 1 races in a row due to the COVID-19 pandemic—the Austrian Grand Prix and the Styrian Grand Prix, with the Austrian Grand Prix also serving as the season opener.

Austria has produced famous Formula 1 drivers like Niki Lauda and Jochen Rindt, both of whom have made a big impact on the sport. The Red Bull Ring remains popular with fans and drivers for its history, speed, and scenic location.