Formula 1’s next destination could not be in sharper contrast to the bright lights and busy streets of Montreal two weeks ago. The Formula 1 Grosser Preis Von Österreich 2015 is held in Spielberg in the Styrian Alps, at a real picture postcard of a racetrack surrounded by the breathtaking scenery so typical of Austria. Although the two venues are vastly different from the fans’ point of view, the circuits do actually have a few things in common. The Red Bull Ring has a similar blend of corners and long straights, calling for the same set-up and aerodynamic balance as the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, and indeed the same choice of Pirelli Soft and Supersoft tyres. There is also a similar focus on brake wear. Although they represent two completely diverse fan experiences, spectators flock to each in equal measure. Last year’s comeback race at what was formerly known as the Österreichring had what many described as a festival feel, with fans lapping up the sound of Formula 1 cars shattering the silence of some of Austria’s greenest countryside.
John Booth │ Team Principal
"Austria marks the start of ’sector 2’ of the season, with a run of five consecutive European races leading us up to a slightly longer flyaway phase. Although the circuit characteristics vary from racetrack to racetrack, this does afford a period of relative consistency, particularly in terms of our trackside operation and the home from home that our race trucks provide. Over the past few races we seem to have taken a small step forward in terms of our relative performance and maximising the potential of our current package. At the same time, we suffered our first retirement of the season in Canada, so our focus will be on ensuring we resume our run of two car finishes, as we had been one of the most reliable teams up until then. The work we are doing in terms of set-up and aerodynamic configuration is also an important part of our development programme and although the results may not be evident on the outside, internally this work is key to rebuilding and developing our technical capabilities to ensure a strong future."
Will Stevens
"I’ve had a couple of good performances at the Red Bull Ring in Formula Renault. It’s a great track and very different to the Canadian experience two weeks ago, but there are a few similarities between the two circuits, including the long straights and high speed corners. It’s quite a fast, flowing track and really fun to drive, with the last sector being my favourite. With no Germany on the calendar this year, this race is one of the big camping events for the fans. Although Montreal is a pretty fantastic atmosphere, there’s something very special about these races as you see the spectators bedding down for the weekend in the fields next to the circuit and loving every minute of it, rain or shine."
Roberto Merhi
"It was disappointing to have to retire from my first Canadian Grand Prix, and for the team to experience its first DNF of the season. Hopefully we’ll be back to our usual impressive level of reliability for this race, as the more mileage for the car and the drivers, the better it is for our long-term development. I had a good weekend until then and things are really starting to come my way. I really like this next track and I’ve even won a couple of times here, so I’m hoping I can pick up where I left off in Montreal in terms of my own progress. It’s a fast and fun circuit to drive, with a few tricky spots, such as the last couple of corners of the lap, which can be difficult to get right. I’m looking forward to the challenge."