It is a story of passion and determination that dates back to the 1950s when a local group of motor racing enthusiasts created a simple L-shaped circuit with hay bales and hosted the country’s first international race. The Osterreichring, though criticised for being a bumpy track, was located in a natural basin and proved to be one of the fastest circuits in the world. The track’s impressive corners, distinct aesthetics and demand on driver skill would pass into Formula One legend.
But after numerous start-line accidents, arguments with local farmers and safety concerns, the Austrian Grand Prix at the Osterreichring was pulled from the calendar in 1987. The track gradually fell into disrepair until local telecoms company A1 redeveloped the circuit and brought Formula One racing back to Austria in 1997. It would continue to host Grands Prix for the next six years, including the 2002 event in which Rubens Barrichello handed victory to Ferrari teammate Michael Schumacher just short of the finishing line, before being dropped from the F1 schedule once more after 2003.
Since revamped and rebranded as the Red Bull Ring, Austria’s legendary home ground circuit promises a thrilling experience for spectators attending the Austrian Grand Prix. Book your Grand Prix packages from South Africa through Edusport. We’ll take care of everything from flights to accommodation to the F1 ticket.
