F1 extends Austrian Grand Prix agreement until 2041
Formula 1 has announced a brand-new long-term contract for the Austrian Grand Prix with the Red Bull Ring staying on the calendar up until 2041. It means the Austrian circuit joins Miami in being the only tracks with a contract which runs until the 2040s, as the Florida place just recently protected an extension up until 2041, too.
F1 has therefore continued a pattern since late of giving circuits very long-lasting offers, as two weeks ago also saw Canada extend its presence till at least 2035.
Stefano Domenicali, F1 CEO, stated: “Austria has long been an incredibly special race for Formula 1 so it’s fantastic we have secured the long-lasting future of a grand prix so deeply rooted in the sport’s history.
“The vision and passion of Dietrich Mateschitz [late owner of the track] provided the race the financial investment and attention that allowed it to return as an extraordinary event on the Formula 1 calendar.
“Each year, going back to the sensational Styrian mountains is a highlight – an experience that stimulates unbelievable emotion among our drivers, teams, and fans alike, creating an atmosphere unlike any other.
“I wish to extend my genuine thanks to Mark Mateschitz and Thomas Uberall and his group for their unwavering devotion to excellence, and to our incredible Austrian fanbase, whose enthusiasm and loyalty continue to elevate this iconic race.”
Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing Picture by: Tim Clarke The Red Bull Ring has actually become one of the most popular tracks on the F1 calendar given that its return in 2014. That came after an extremely in-and-out presence for the venue, as the Austrian Grand Prix initially appeared in F1 in 1964 at the Zeltweg Airfield.
It then immediately dropped off the calendar before returning again in 1970 at the exact same venue as now, however back then it was referred to as the Osterreichring.
The Osterreichring held the race every year up until 1987 before dropping off again for security reasons up until it returned in 1997.
It returned as the A1-Ring and only appeared for seven years, as it left at the end of 2003 over a dispute between F1 and the Austrian government relating to tobacco advertisement.
The Styrian location was then bought by the late Red Bull founder Dietrich Mateschitz in 2010, who led heavy financial investment and remodelling of the track. It therefore returned again in 2014 as the Red Bull Ring and has actually remained ever since.
Dietrich’s boy Mark Mateschitz said: “I am delighted that Formula 1 will remain at the Red Bull Ring for many years to come.
“I am proud to continue my father’s tradition and to preserve the abundant history of motor racing in Styria and at the Red Bull Ring– with and, above all, for individuals of the area.
“Austria’s close ties to Formula 1 are an outstanding foundation for our long-lasting collaboration. Working together, we plan to continue this success story for many years to come.”
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