The Red Bull Ring will remain on the Formula 1 calendar for next 17 years in a landmark deal.
F1 and the Austrian Grand Prix have announced a groundbreaking contract extension that will keep the iconic Red Bull Ring on the championship calendar until 2041, marking one of the longest-term venue agreements in the sport’s modern era.
A 17-year extension
The 17-year extension represents a significant vote of confidence in the Austrian venue. The Red Bull Ring which has become one of the most popular stops on the F1 calendar since its return to the championship in 2014. It is nestled in the scenic Styrian mountains near Spielberg, has consistently delivered spectacular racing. This has continued to attract passionate crowds from across Europe.
F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali commented on this extension.
“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 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 announcement comes as Formula 1 continues to expand its global footprint while maintaining its commitment to traditional European venues. Austria’s position on the calendar has been strengthened by consistently high attendance figures. The 2024 race weekend attracted over 300,000 spectators across the three days.
Home of Red Bull
Red Bull, which owns and operates the circuit, has invested heavily in facility upgrades and infrastructure improvements since acquiring the venue. The circuit’s General Manager, Thomas Überall, expressed his satisfaction with the extended partnership.
“This long-term commitment to us by Formula 1 is a great honour and a wonderful challenge that we are happy to undertake on behalf of the fans and the Murtal region.
“The new contract is of inestimable importance for the future. The long-term security of the Austrian Grand Prix will trigger further investment in infrastructure and means tremendous added value for the Murtal region, for Styria and for Austria.”
Mark Mateschit, part owner of Red Bull GmbH, also added his thoughts.
“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.”
The Red Bull Ring’s history
The circuit, originally built in 1969 and extensively renovated before F1’s return, features one of the shortest lap distances on the current calendar at just 4.318 kilometers. Despite its compact nature, the track’s elevation changes, high-speed corners and multiple overtaking opportunities have made it a favourite among drivers.
The Red Bull Ring has hosted some of Formula 1’s most memorable moments in recent years, including the Mercedes tangle on the last lap in 2016, Verstappen and Norris having contact last year, as well as other numerous dramatic moments. The circuit’s unique characteristics, combined with Austria’s passionate motorsport culture, have made it a standout venue on the increasingly global F1 calendar.
With this extension secured, Formula 1 fans can look forward to many more years of high-octane racing in the beautiful Austrian countryside, as the Red Bull Ring cements its place as one of the sport’s most beloved venues well into the next decade.
