The 2025 Austrian Grand Prix at Spielberg (aka Red Bull Ring) will feature multiple interesting storylines that will shape the weekend’s race for the F1 world championship. With top team McLaren licking its wounds after a disastrous 2025 Canadian Grand Prix, Mercedes coming on strong and Ferrari still trying to figure things out with Lewis Hamilton, round 11 will be must-watch racing.
Here’s a look at top storylines heading into the Austrian Grand Prix.
Can McLaren Rebound at the 2025 Austrian Grand Prix?
All eyes at Spielberg will be on McLaren’s response after the dramatic Canadian Grand Prix collision between teammates Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri. McLaren started the 2025 season as the dominant force on the grid with both drivers competing for the championship. The Montreal incident resulted in Norris’s elimination from the race, which left him 17 points behind Piastri. Norris took full responsibility for the incident by calling himself “stupid,” while Team Principal Andrea Stella emphasized that McLaren-on-McLaren contact is not acceptable. The key now? How will McLaren handle its two quick drivers who continue to jockey for the top spot? Norris, who has achieved two podium finishes at the Austrian Grand Prix, wants to deliver a strong performance. Get the popcorn ready.
Can Ferrari Swing 2025 Momentum with Upgrades?
Another crucial storyline involves Scuderia Ferrari’s introduction of significant performance upgrades amidst mounting team pressure. Ferrari will debut a revised floor in Austria, aiming to address the inconsistency in their 2025 season. A more extensive upgrade, including rear suspension modifications, is planned for the British Grand Prix, which has been delayed due to logistics. While the Austrian changes aren’t a silver bullet, they begin efforts to salvage the season, with Silverstone being the actual litmus test. Team Principal Frederic Vasseur has publicly addressed Italian media reports on his job security, receiving strong backing from Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, who share his vision for success.
Will Max Verstappen Dominate Red Bull Ring Again?
Attention will also be on Max Verstappen, balancing home circuit dominance with penalty point vulnerability. Verstappen boasts an impressive record at the Red Bull Ring, with four victories and five pole positions, making him a strong contender for the win. Despite that, he is precariously one penalty point away from a one-race suspension. Two points from his 2024 Austrian Grand Prix collision with Lando Norris expire after this race, offering significant relief if he avoids an incident. His composure in Canada, despite the situation, underscores his focus.
Will Mercedes Momentum Continue at 2025 Austrian Grand Prix
Adding to the excitement is Mercedes’ recent resurgence after a dream weekend in Canada. George Russell secured his first win from pole, and rookie Kimi Antonelli impressively clinched his maiden F1 podium with a third-place finish. This double-podium propelled Mercedes ahead of Ferrari in the Constructors’ standings. Mercedes often performs best in cooler conditions, making the Austrian weather forecast a vital factor in maintaining their upward trajectory.
Related: Mercedes principal Toto Wolff signs 3-year extension
Is Sauber Separating Itself in the Midfield?
Sauber’s unobtrusive yet significant improvement creates an interesting midfield storyline. Sauber has delivered surprising results this season despite undergoing recent personnel changes and their upcoming transition to Audi. The team has achieved two consecutive points finishes, thanks to Nico Hülkenberg’s eighth-place finish in Canada and his fifth-place finish in Spain. The team demonstrated its points-scoring potential last year when Hülkenberg finished sixth in Austria. Can the Hulk and Sauber do it again at the 2025 Austrian Grand Prix?
More About:Formula 1