Immersion at the Red Bull Ring, jewel of Austria

Situated in the heart of the Austrian forest, this gem was extensively restored in 2005. Owned by Red Bull, this circuit is modern but perfectly integrated into its environment. The start/finish straight is dominated by the paddock on one side, and by a huge glass room, above the stands, on the other. Facing this glass wall is the mountain overlooking Spielberg, winding through the track that cars take like a Viennese waltz. Between the asphalt lines, the greenery, the trees, and a somewhat peculiar bull, remind us of the strong connection between Austria and its magnificent nature.

Here we go for a ride!

Barely past the starting lights, the ascent towards the first turn is already starting. An imposing stand is erected in front, often adorned in orange in KTM country… and in support of Max Verstappen. After the first turn, you have to go down slightly into a small bowl, before climbing back up to reach the hairpin of the 3rd turn. Such a climb is a must for a region located on the eastern slope of the Alps.

The pin is a peak that can be seen from afar but does not approach… or very little at the pace of strides that narrow due to the slope. The heart accelerates, the body struggles on this steep slope. At the top of this curve number 3, each runner turns around to appreciate the view offered towards the valley, the countryside. Every view is deserved. This endless climb gives way to a bit of respite, flat or almost, on the longest straight line of the route.

A mountain dominated by the famous bull.

Then it’s the beginning of the descent, near the fir trees, very close to a particular species. It seems that there is only one of its kind in the world. We are of course talking about the immense statue of the Red Bull bull. It dominates the track like a territory acquired for its cause. The closer we get, the smaller and more ridiculous we feel next to such a beast.

The circuit winds its way like the hairpin turns of an alpine pass… offering some challenges with slight inclines, especially between turns 5-6 and 7-8. The terrain is more pronounced on foot than from the car as the engines gulp up the slope like hungry ogres. Just after turn 8, the final bumpy section stands tall. Finally, the last descent is here! The last 2 right-hand turns allow for a final burst of speed. The white and red rumble strips wake up the eyes, forming a vivid giant Austrian flag. Once again, the starting lights are visible, the final sprint towards the finish line is on… and the lap is completed.

Running, a true tradition during race weekends.

Many are the running enthusiasts once the sun goes down in the sky, during Grand Prix weekends. Team members, journalists, and paddock members share this silent moment: together but each in their own bubble. It’s the calm before the storm of the Grand Prix the next day. The hill is silent, the crickets sing, the smell of evergreens invades the nostrils… Tomorrow the roar of the engines will wake up our ears, the smoke will irritate our nostrils, and the crowd will chant the name of the victorious champion… the new king of the Spielberg mountain.