Red Bull Ring
Location:
Spielberg (Styria), Austria
Local Weather & Time
Upcoming at Red Bull Ring
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Austrian Grand Prix
Formula 3
26 - 28 Jun
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Austrian Grand Prix
Formula 2
26 - 28 Jun
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Austrian Grand Prix
Formula 1
26 - 28 Jun
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Austrian Grand Prix
Moto-3
18 - 20 Sep
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Austrian Grand Prix
Moto-2
18 - 20 Sep
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Austrian Grand Prix
MotoGP
18 - 20 Sep
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Track Info
Red Bull Ring - Spielberg, Austria
Permanent road course in the Styrian hills - clockwise - short lap with big elevation and three heavy braking zones
When was the track built?
The original Österreichring carved a super fast ribbon through farmland and forests from 1969, hosting F1 from 1970. After safety concerns ended top level racing in the late 1980s, a shorter, safer circuit was created by Hermann Tilke and reopened as the A1 Ring in 1997. After a hiatus, Red Bull rebuilt and revived the venue, reopening in 2011 as the Red Bull Ring with expanded facilities and a modern pit complex.
In 2019 Turn 1 was named the Niki Lauda Kurve. The bike layout gained a new Turn 2 chicane in 2022 to reduce approach speeds to Turn 3, while the F1 layout remained unchanged. The setting - a natural amphitheatre in Styria - is part of the legend.
When was its first race?
The venue’s first race action came in 1969 on the original Österreichring. World Championship Formula 1 arrived the next year, and after eras as the A1 Ring and today’s Red Bull Ring, the circuit is once again a calendar staple with frequent double header seasons in 2020 2021.
What's the circuit like?
- Short, punchy lap: Sub 70 second race laps mean tiny gaps decide everything. Traffic and track limits management are constant themes.
- Three big stops: T1 uphill, T3 hairpin and T4 Schlossgold define overtaking. Good traction and confidence over the exit kerbs pay off all lap.
- Elevation and wind: A steep climb to T3 and a drop into T4 alter braking points. Crosswinds through the final two rights can flip balance mid corner.
- DRS and passes: Typically three DRS zones link T1, T3 and T4, creating back to back chances and switchbacks through the first half of the lap.
- Benchmark pace: Current F1 race lap record 1:07.924. Qualifying poles often land in the 1:03 1:04 range depending on conditions.
Lap records and benchmarks (by series)
- Formula 1 (race lap): 1:07.924 - Oscar Piastri, 2025 Austrian GP - 4.326 km GP layout.
- MotoGP (bike layout): Uses the added Turn 2 chicane since 2022 for safety, with premier class race laps typically in the 1:29 1:30 range.
- DTM: Touring cars lap in the 1:27 1:29 bracket depending on era and BoP, with big braking battles into T3 and T4.
- ELMS/Prototype reference: LMP2 machines run low 1:20s in qualifying on the GP layout when the series visits.
- GT World Challenge Europe and ADAC GT Masters: GT3 race laps hover around mid 1:28s to low 1:30s, slipstreaming up the hill to T3.
Why go?
Stunning alpine scenery, packed grandstands and a layout that encourages hard braking and DRS duels. The compact lap gives constant action and frequent strategy twists with safety cars and track limits penalties in play. The fan village, hill viewing and campsite atmosphere make it one of Europe’s most enjoyable weekends.
Where's the best place to watch?
- T1 Niki Lauda: See launch, restarts and switchbacks as drivers fight traction up the hill.
- T3 Remus hairpin: Prime overtaking zone with big braking, late dives and powerful exits toward T4.
- T4 Schlossgold: Another heavy stop where outside lines can work on exit. Great for multi car battles.
- T9 Rindt to T10: Flat out right handers where track limits and precision decide lap times and penalties.
- Main grandstand: Pit stops, grid and podium views with a panorama of the valley and final sector.
Not just F1: Austrian and world series at Spielberg
MotoGP Austrian GP: Since 2016 on the bike layout with the Turn 2 chicane added in 2022 for improved safety and extra passing.
DTM: German touring car headliner brings elbows out racing and photo finishes into T3 and T4.
ELMS and Prototype events: Multi class traffic on a short lap creates constant action and strategy gambles.
GT3 showcases: GT World Challenge Europe, ADAC GT Masters and Porsche one make cups deliver dense packs and kerb riding through the last sector.
Road to F1: Formula 2 and Formula 3 produce slipstream trains and late lunges up the hill, often setting up title turning weekends.
Transportation & Parking
Getting to Red Bull Ring - Spielberg, Austria
Best options are ÖBB train to Knittelfeld + free event shuttle, regional shuttles from Judenburg, long-distance CityShuttle coaches from major cities, or driving to free on-site car parks.
Train to Knittelfeld + free shuttle - easiest way
- Across Austria by rail: Use ÖBB to Knittelfeld. From there, the free shuttle runs every 20 minutes 07:00 - 20:00 and every 30 minutes 20:00 - 23:00 on Fri - Sun (Sun usually until evening only).
- Judenburg option: Free event buses also link Judenburg Postgasse and the circuit on race weekend.
- Where you arrive: Shuttles set down next to the main entrances - follow stewarded paths to your gate.
Tip: If you are coming from Vienna, current guidance recommends rail to Knittelfeld due to roadworks, then the shuttle.
CityShuttle coaches from major cities
On Saturday and Sunday there are dedicated CityShuttle buses that pick up in selected locations across Vienna, Lower Austria, Salzburg and Styria, then drop directly at the Red Bull Ring bus park for short walks to the gates. Pre-book seats to guarantee a spot.
Driving and parking
- Free parking: All spectator car parks are free of charge and generally do not require reservations. Police and stewards will route you to the nearest available lot.
- Walkable distance: Car parks are within walking distance of the venue - note the lot number on entry to find your car later.
- Alternative Park and Ride spots: Some years include Park and Ride such as Therme Fohnsdorf with event shuttles. Check the current race-week notice.
Walking from shuttle and car parks
- Shuttle drop → entrances: short, stewarded walk to the main gates and fan zones.
- Car parks → grandstands: allow 10-25 minutes depending on your stand and the field you are parked in.
Taxis and rideshare
- Use the hubs: For quickest exits, head back to the shuttle hubs at Knittelfeld or Judenburg, or pre-arrange a pickup in town rather than near the perimeter where traffic is controlled.
Airports and long-distance travel
- Graz GRZ → Red Bull Ring: about 85 km by road. Rail links via Graz Hauptbahnhof to Knittelfeld then event shuttle.
- Vienna VIE → Red Bull Ring: around 200 km. Rail via Wien Hbf to Knittelfeld, then shuttle.
- Salzburg SZG → Red Bull Ring: around 190 km. Rail via Salzburg Hbf to Knittelfeld, then shuttle.
Gate quick guide - what is nearest
- Shuttle arrivals: drop near the main entrance area - follow signs for your printed gate.
- Parking fields: color and number codes guide you to the closest pedestrian route to your stand. Stewards will direct you on arrival.
Always check your e-ticket and race-week transport bulletins for any last minute changes to shuttle timetables and traffic routing.
Nearby Activities
Things to do around Red Bull Ring (Spielberg, Styria, Austria)
Here for Formula 1, MotoGP, DTM or a national race weekend - you are in the Murtal valley with forested hills, spas, alpine lakes and family attractions within easy reach for mornings, evenings and non race days.
Family friendly highlights near the circuit
- Red Bull Ring Kart Track: Outdoor karting with arrive and drive sessions on non event days. Great for mixed experience groups.
- Off road & 4x4 areas: Guided off road driving and passenger rides operate on selected dates. Check requirements and age limits before you book.
- Aqualux Therme Fohnsdorf: Large family friendly thermal spa with slides, kids zones and a quiet wellness wing for adults.
- Asia Spa Leoben: Pools and saunas with family sessions and a separate wellness area - a good cloudy day option.
- Wipfelwanderweg Rachau: Treetop walkway through larch forest with views over the Murtal valley - gentle gradients that suit kids.
- Murtalbahn steam days: Heritage narrow gauge rides through the valley on selected summer dates - fun for rail fans and families.
Indoor pools and treetop walks can run reduced hours outside school holidays - always check dates if you plan around practice and qualifying.
Culture hits and rainy day winners
- Abbey of Seckau: Romanesque basilica and quiet cloisters in a working Benedictine abbey - peaceful and photogenic.
- Murau Brewery of the Senses: Interactive brewery tour and tasting in the timber town of Murau. Family friendly exhibits with soft drink options for kids.
- Gösser Brewery & Museum, Leoben: Austrian brewing heritage with a compact museum and tasting room near the old town.
- Leoben Old Town: Covered arcades, riverside walks and cafés - easy couple of hours if the weather turns.
Eat and drink like a local
- Styrian classics: Try pumpkin seed oil dishes, käsespätzle, schnitzel and seasonal game. Local apple strudel and curd desserts are everywhere.
- Murtal inns: Rustic gasthäuser around Knittelfeld, Zeltweg and Judenburg serve hearty plates perfect after a long day at the track.
- Graz for a night out: If you are staying longer, the city’s farm to table bistros and wine bars make an easy celebratory dinner plan.
Active outdoors between sessions
- Hiking and viewpoints: Short marked trails above Spielberg and Gaal give big valley views without committing to a full day hike.
- Lake time: Grüner See near Tragöß is famous for emerald meltwater in late spring and early summer. It is a scenic walk rather than a swimming lake.
- Bike paths: Flat riverside sections of the Murradweg suit families and casual riders. Rental options are available in nearby towns.
Easy day trips if you are extending your stay
- Graz - About 1 hour. UNESCO listed old town, Schlossberg hill with funicular and a lively food scene. Good all weather choice.
- Piber Lipizzaner Stud - Roughly 1 hour. Home of the world famous white stallions with guided tours and seasonal shows.
- Riegersburg & chocolate factory pairing - Around 1.5 hours. Hilltop castle views combined with a popular bean to bar tour nearby make a sweet family day.
- Eisenerz & Erzberg - About 1 to 1.5 hours. Open cast iron mine adventures on the giant Hauly trucks plus lakes and alpine scenery.
- Murau & Kreischberg - 50 to 70 minutes. Timber town walks and gondola rides on Kreischberg in summer for easy alpine air.
Times are approximate and can rise on headline weekends. Some attractions run seasonal calendars or require timed tickets - check before you set off.
When to go and what to expect
- Peak motorsport - Late spring to early autumn brings the biggest events and most off track programming. Local restaurants and spas get busy on Friday and Saturday nights.
- Weather - Mountain sun is strong but showers can move in quickly. Bring layers, a light rain jacket and comfortable shoes for gravel paths and boardwalks.
Practical notes during race weeks
- On site experiences: Karting, off road and track tours may pause or switch to special slots during major events. Book early if you want to fit them around sessions.
- Park access: Selected internal roads and footpaths are redirected during build and race days. Follow event maps and signage inside the park.
- Reservations: Spas, treetop walks and brewery tours can sell out around F1 and MotoGP weekends - reserve time slots if possible.
Opening hours, operating seasons and event week plans can change - check official sites close to your visit.
Hotels & Accommodation
Location:
Spielberg (Styria), Austria
Track Info
Red Bull Ring - Spielberg, Austria
Permanent road course in the Styrian hills - clockwise - short lap with big elevation and three heavy braking zones
When was the track built?
The original Österreichring carved a super fast ribbon through farmland and forests from 1969, hosting F1 from 1970. After safety concerns ended top level racing in the late 1980s, a shorter, safer circuit was created by Hermann Tilke and reopened as the A1 Ring in 1997. After a hiatus, Red Bull rebuilt and revived the venue, reopening in 2011 as the Red Bull Ring with expanded facilities and a modern pit complex.
In 2019 Turn 1 was named the Niki Lauda Kurve. The bike layout gained a new Turn 2 chicane in 2022 to reduce approach speeds to Turn 3, while the F1 layout remained unchanged. The setting - a natural amphitheatre in Styria - is part of the legend.
When was its first race?
The venue’s first race action came in 1969 on the original Österreichring. World Championship Formula 1 arrived the next year, and after eras as the A1 Ring and today’s Red Bull Ring, the circuit is once again a calendar staple with frequent double header seasons in 2020 2021.
What's the circuit like?
- Short, punchy lap: Sub 70 second race laps mean tiny gaps decide everything. Traffic and track limits management are constant themes.
- Three big stops: T1 uphill, T3 hairpin and T4 Schlossgold define overtaking. Good traction and confidence over the exit kerbs pay off all lap.
- Elevation and wind: A steep climb to T3 and a drop into T4 alter braking points. Crosswinds through the final two rights can flip balance mid corner.
- DRS and passes: Typically three DRS zones link T1, T3 and T4, creating back to back chances and switchbacks through the first half of the lap.
- Benchmark pace: Current F1 race lap record 1:07.924. Qualifying poles often land in the 1:03 1:04 range depending on conditions.
Lap records and benchmarks (by series)
- Formula 1 (race lap): 1:07.924 - Oscar Piastri, 2025 Austrian GP - 4.326 km GP layout.
- MotoGP (bike layout): Uses the added Turn 2 chicane since 2022 for safety, with premier class race laps typically in the 1:29 1:30 range.
- DTM: Touring cars lap in the 1:27 1:29 bracket depending on era and BoP, with big braking battles into T3 and T4.
- ELMS/Prototype reference: LMP2 machines run low 1:20s in qualifying on the GP layout when the series visits.
- GT World Challenge Europe and ADAC GT Masters: GT3 race laps hover around mid 1:28s to low 1:30s, slipstreaming up the hill to T3.
Why go?
Stunning alpine scenery, packed grandstands and a layout that encourages hard braking and DRS duels. The compact lap gives constant action and frequent strategy twists with safety cars and track limits penalties in play. The fan village, hill viewing and campsite atmosphere make it one of Europe’s most enjoyable weekends.
Where's the best place to watch?
- T1 Niki Lauda: See launch, restarts and switchbacks as drivers fight traction up the hill.
- T3 Remus hairpin: Prime overtaking zone with big braking, late dives and powerful exits toward T4.
- T4 Schlossgold: Another heavy stop where outside lines can work on exit. Great for multi car battles.
- T9 Rindt to T10: Flat out right handers where track limits and precision decide lap times and penalties.
- Main grandstand: Pit stops, grid and podium views with a panorama of the valley and final sector.
Not just F1: Austrian and world series at Spielberg
MotoGP Austrian GP: Since 2016 on the bike layout with the Turn 2 chicane added in 2022 for improved safety and extra passing.
DTM: German touring car headliner brings elbows out racing and photo finishes into T3 and T4.
ELMS and Prototype events: Multi class traffic on a short lap creates constant action and strategy gambles.
GT3 showcases: GT World Challenge Europe, ADAC GT Masters and Porsche one make cups deliver dense packs and kerb riding through the last sector.
Road to F1: Formula 2 and Formula 3 produce slipstream trains and late lunges up the hill, often setting up title turning weekends.
Transportation & Parking
Getting to Red Bull Ring - Spielberg, Austria
Best options are ÖBB train to Knittelfeld + free event shuttle, regional shuttles from Judenburg, long-distance CityShuttle coaches from major cities, or driving to free on-site car parks.
Train to Knittelfeld + free shuttle - easiest way
- Across Austria by rail: Use ÖBB to Knittelfeld. From there, the free shuttle runs every 20 minutes 07:00 - 20:00 and every 30 minutes 20:00 - 23:00 on Fri - Sun (Sun usually until evening only).
- Judenburg option: Free event buses also link Judenburg Postgasse and the circuit on race weekend.
- Where you arrive: Shuttles set down next to the main entrances - follow stewarded paths to your gate.
Tip: If you are coming from Vienna, current guidance recommends rail to Knittelfeld due to roadworks, then the shuttle.
CityShuttle coaches from major cities
On Saturday and Sunday there are dedicated CityShuttle buses that pick up in selected locations across Vienna, Lower Austria, Salzburg and Styria, then drop directly at the Red Bull Ring bus park for short walks to the gates. Pre-book seats to guarantee a spot.
Driving and parking
- Free parking: All spectator car parks are free of charge and generally do not require reservations. Police and stewards will route you to the nearest available lot.
- Walkable distance: Car parks are within walking distance of the venue - note the lot number on entry to find your car later.
- Alternative Park and Ride spots: Some years include Park and Ride such as Therme Fohnsdorf with event shuttles. Check the current race-week notice.
Walking from shuttle and car parks
- Shuttle drop → entrances: short, stewarded walk to the main gates and fan zones.
- Car parks → grandstands: allow 10-25 minutes depending on your stand and the field you are parked in.
Taxis and rideshare
- Use the hubs: For quickest exits, head back to the shuttle hubs at Knittelfeld or Judenburg, or pre-arrange a pickup in town rather than near the perimeter where traffic is controlled.
Airports and long-distance travel
- Graz GRZ → Red Bull Ring: about 85 km by road. Rail links via Graz Hauptbahnhof to Knittelfeld then event shuttle.
- Vienna VIE → Red Bull Ring: around 200 km. Rail via Wien Hbf to Knittelfeld, then shuttle.
- Salzburg SZG → Red Bull Ring: around 190 km. Rail via Salzburg Hbf to Knittelfeld, then shuttle.
Gate quick guide - what is nearest
- Shuttle arrivals: drop near the main entrance area - follow signs for your printed gate.
- Parking fields: color and number codes guide you to the closest pedestrian route to your stand. Stewards will direct you on arrival.
Always check your e-ticket and race-week transport bulletins for any last minute changes to shuttle timetables and traffic routing.
Nearby Activities
Things to do around Red Bull Ring (Spielberg, Styria, Austria)
Here for Formula 1, MotoGP, DTM or a national race weekend - you are in the Murtal valley with forested hills, spas, alpine lakes and family attractions within easy reach for mornings, evenings and non race days.
Family friendly highlights near the circuit
- Red Bull Ring Kart Track: Outdoor karting with arrive and drive sessions on non event days. Great for mixed experience groups.
- Off road & 4x4 areas: Guided off road driving and passenger rides operate on selected dates. Check requirements and age limits before you book.
- Aqualux Therme Fohnsdorf: Large family friendly thermal spa with slides, kids zones and a quiet wellness wing for adults.
- Asia Spa Leoben: Pools and saunas with family sessions and a separate wellness area - a good cloudy day option.
- Wipfelwanderweg Rachau: Treetop walkway through larch forest with views over the Murtal valley - gentle gradients that suit kids.
- Murtalbahn steam days: Heritage narrow gauge rides through the valley on selected summer dates - fun for rail fans and families.
Indoor pools and treetop walks can run reduced hours outside school holidays - always check dates if you plan around practice and qualifying.
Culture hits and rainy day winners
- Abbey of Seckau: Romanesque basilica and quiet cloisters in a working Benedictine abbey - peaceful and photogenic.
- Murau Brewery of the Senses: Interactive brewery tour and tasting in the timber town of Murau. Family friendly exhibits with soft drink options for kids.
- Gösser Brewery & Museum, Leoben: Austrian brewing heritage with a compact museum and tasting room near the old town.
- Leoben Old Town: Covered arcades, riverside walks and cafés - easy couple of hours if the weather turns.
Eat and drink like a local
- Styrian classics: Try pumpkin seed oil dishes, käsespätzle, schnitzel and seasonal game. Local apple strudel and curd desserts are everywhere.
- Murtal inns: Rustic gasthäuser around Knittelfeld, Zeltweg and Judenburg serve hearty plates perfect after a long day at the track.
- Graz for a night out: If you are staying longer, the city’s farm to table bistros and wine bars make an easy celebratory dinner plan.
Active outdoors between sessions
- Hiking and viewpoints: Short marked trails above Spielberg and Gaal give big valley views without committing to a full day hike.
- Lake time: Grüner See near Tragöß is famous for emerald meltwater in late spring and early summer. It is a scenic walk rather than a swimming lake.
- Bike paths: Flat riverside sections of the Murradweg suit families and casual riders. Rental options are available in nearby towns.
Easy day trips if you are extending your stay
- Graz - About 1 hour. UNESCO listed old town, Schlossberg hill with funicular and a lively food scene. Good all weather choice.
- Piber Lipizzaner Stud - Roughly 1 hour. Home of the world famous white stallions with guided tours and seasonal shows.
- Riegersburg & chocolate factory pairing - Around 1.5 hours. Hilltop castle views combined with a popular bean to bar tour nearby make a sweet family day.
- Eisenerz & Erzberg - About 1 to 1.5 hours. Open cast iron mine adventures on the giant Hauly trucks plus lakes and alpine scenery.
- Murau & Kreischberg - 50 to 70 minutes. Timber town walks and gondola rides on Kreischberg in summer for easy alpine air.
Times are approximate and can rise on headline weekends. Some attractions run seasonal calendars or require timed tickets - check before you set off.
When to go and what to expect
- Peak motorsport - Late spring to early autumn brings the biggest events and most off track programming. Local restaurants and spas get busy on Friday and Saturday nights.
- Weather - Mountain sun is strong but showers can move in quickly. Bring layers, a light rain jacket and comfortable shoes for gravel paths and boardwalks.
Practical notes during race weeks
- On site experiences: Karting, off road and track tours may pause or switch to special slots during major events. Book early if you want to fit them around sessions.
- Park access: Selected internal roads and footpaths are redirected during build and race days. Follow event maps and signage inside the park.
- Reservations: Spas, treetop walks and brewery tours can sell out around F1 and MotoGP weekends - reserve time slots if possible.
Opening hours, operating seasons and event week plans can change - check official sites close to your visit.
