Max Verstappen, the runaway leader and defending double world champion, aims to make history at the Austrian Grand Prix this weekend by becoming the most successful driver in the event’s history.
The Red Bull team plans to mark this milestone on their home turf with a poignant ‘century’ celebration.
The 25-year-old Dutch driver, currently leading the title race with a 69-point advantage over his teammate Sergio Perez, shares the record of three Austrian Grand Prix victories with four-time champion Alain Prost.
Securing another win at the Red Bull Ring circuit would elevate Verstappen’s tally to four, making it his seventh victory in nine races this season and the team’s 101st win since the passing of owner Dietrich Mateschitz last October.
Team principal Christian Horner expressed the significance of the upcoming race, stating, “It’s going to be a bit special this time.” The team recently celebrated their 100th triumph at the Canadian Grand Prix and looks forward to returning to Austria with their impressive form and exceptional performances by Verstappen.
Horner anticipates a sold-out crowd, a fantastic atmosphere, and a memorable event. Verstappen has already achieved four wins at Spielberg in the past.
Verstappen himself is eager to compete at his home race, stating, “We always enjoy coming back to our home race in Austria,” and expressing excitement about the possibility of adding another trophy to the team’s collection.
With the race being a sprint race weekend, he acknowledges the increased complexity and intensity. The Dutch driver is expected to receive immense support from the passionate ‘orange army’ of fans who will be present at the circuit.
In response to previous incidents of misconduct among spectators, measures have been taken to enhance security and ban alcohol consumption. Rain has also been forecasted throughout the weekend, potentially adding another layer of challenge to the race. However, Verstappen remains unfazed, having won the sprint race last year, despite ultimately losing the Grand Prix to Charles Leclerc of Ferrari.
Ferrari, who claimed their last victory at this event, aims to mount a strong comeback following a disappointing performance in Montreal. They seek to challenge Aston Martin and Mercedes for a podium finish. Meanwhile, seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton aims to maintain his recent momentum, and Fernando Alonso, a two-time champion, targets his seventh podium finish of the year with Aston Martin.
Hamilton expressed his hope for a closely contested battle, saying, “To have all three of us in a super-tight battle would be ‘sick’!” As the competition intensifies, fans eagerly anticipate witnessing the thrilling showdown at the Austrian Grand Prix.
