By DCB Editorial, June 25, 2025
In the run-up to this weekend’s Austrian Grand Prix, Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff outlines the challenges that lie ahead.
“Victory and a double podium in Montreal were a reward for the hard work of everyone at Brackley and Brixworth. Though we have made solid progress with our car in recent weeks, we know that we cannot expect this level of performance each and every weekend. The Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, with its absence of high-speed corners and a more closed tarmac that puts less stress on the tyres, suited the W16. The team executed well and took advantage of that, but we know that our rivals will likely be much more competitive in Austria this weekend.”
“Building on the momentum from Canada is therefore our focus. The track in Spielberg will be a good test of our recent updates and provide another reference point for our progress. There is still a long way to go this season. We will look to maximise our points scoring and hopefully be able to challenge for the podium once again.”
Fact File: Austrian Grand Prix
Fast Facts
- Lap Record: 1:02.939 by Valtteri Bottas (2020)
- Track Length: 4.318 km (5th shortest on the calendar)
- Corners: 10 (fewest of any 2025 F1 circuit)
- Corners Taken Full Throttle: 3 (Turns 2, 5, 8 – not considered corners by engineers)
- Elevation Change: 69 m – one of the largest on the calendar
- Max Track Temp Recorded: 55.1°C – hottest on the calendar
Engineering Challenges
- Set-Up Balance:
- Low-speed grip (Turns 1, 3, 4)
- High-speed performance (Turns 6–7, 9–10)
- Braking Zones:
- Three hard braking zones (Turns 1, 3, 4)
- Limited cooling → high brake wear
- Kerbs:
- Aggressive at T1, T6, T7
- High impact on suspension
- Tyre Warm-Up:
- Short out-lap + heavy brake cooling = tough on front tyre prep
Track Specifics
- Location: Styrian Mountains – steep track slopes (notably Turns 3 & 4)
- Unique Feature: Edge-to-apex elevation = wheels can lift off ground
- Format (2025): Return to traditional race weekend (no Sprint)
History & Legacy
- Only Austrian Winner: Niki Lauda (1984)
- Consecutive Grands Prix: First circuit to host two (Austrian + Styrian, 2020)
- Most Wins (Constructor): Mercedes (7)
- George Russell: Winner at all levels – F3, F2, F1 (2024 F1 winner)
- Kimi’s First F1 Test: At Spielberg, in 2024 (Mercedes W12)
- Every Hybrid Era Mercedes Driver Has Won Here: Hamilton, Rosberg, Bottas, Russell