F1 signs Austrian Grand Prix to long-term deal

Formula 1 has announced a new long-term contract for the Austrian Grand Prix with the Red Bull Ring staying on the calendar 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 venue recently secured an extension until 2041, too. 

F1 has therefore continued a trend as of late of giving circuits very long-term deals, as two weeks ago also saw Canada extend its presence until at least 2035. 

Stefano Domenicali, F1 CEO, said: “Austria has long been an incredibly special race for Formula 1 so it’s fantastic we have secured the long-term 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] gave the race the investment and attention that allowed it to return as an incredible event on the Formula 1 calendar.

“Each year, returning to the stunning Styrian mountains is a highlight – an experience that evokes incredible emotion among our drivers, teams, and fans alike, creating an atmosphere unlike any other.

“I want to extend my sincere thanks to Mark Mateschitz and Thomas Überall and his team for their unwavering dedication to excellence, and to our incredible Austrian fanbase, whose enthusiasm and loyalty continue to elevate this iconic race.”

The Red Bull Ring has become one of the most popular tracks on the F1 calendar since its return in 2014. That came after a very in-and-out presence for the venue, as the Austrian Grand Prix first appeared in F1 in 1964 at the Zeltweg Airfield.

It then immediately dropped off the calendar before returning again in 1970 at the same venue as now, but back then it was referred to as the Osterreichring. 

The Osterreichring held the race every year until 1987 before dropping off again for safety reasons 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 disagreement between F1 and the Austrian government regarding tobacco .

The Styrian venue was then bought by the late Red Bull founder Dietrich Mateschitz in 2010, who led heavy investment and renovation of the track. It therefore returned again in 2014 as the Red Bull Ring and has remained ever since.

Dietrich’s son 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 legacy and to preserve the rich history of motor racing in Styria and at the Red Bull Ring – with and, above all, for the people of the region.

“Austria’s close ties to Formula 1 are an excellent foundation for our long-term partnership. Working together, we intend to continue this success story for many years to come.”