The news had been anticipated, but it was officially confirmed on Sunday: Formula 1 has extended the contract for the Austrian Grand Prix until 2041. Thanks to a long-term contract with promoter Projekt Spielberg GmbH & Co KG, the Austrian race will remain on the calendar for the next sixteen seasons.
The Austrian Grand Prix has been a staple of Formula 1 for quite some time. The premier class first came to Austria in 1964 and has since traveled to the country 37 times. The current location of the Austrian Grand Prix, the Red Bull Ring, has also been a long-standing participant, hosting the race since 1970. Notable winners in Austria include Alain Prost, Niki Lauda, Michael Schumacher, and Alan Jones, but it is Max Verstappen who holds the record for the most victories on the track. The Dutchman has won Red Bull’s home race five times.
‘Incredibly Special Race’
“Austria has been an incredibly special race for Formula 1 for a long time, so it’s fantastic that we have secured its future in the long term,” says Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali about the extension of the Austrian Grand Prix contract. “Every year, returning to the beautiful mountains of Styria is a highlight. It’s an experience that evokes incredible emotions in our drivers, teams, and fans, and creates an unparalleled atmosphere.”