An incredible 303,000 fans over the entire race weekend made the “Formula 1 Rolex Großer Preis von Österreich 2022” the biggest sporting event of the year in Austria. Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc were locked in a thrilling battle for victory on the track. After a turbulent 71 laps, the Ferrari driver managed to defeat the Dutch world champion. Carlos Sainz’s Ferrari went up in flames in a worrying moment. Third place went to Lewis Hamilton.
“It was not easy today. We battled with the tyres throughout the entire race, no matter which ones we put on. I hardly had a chance to attack Charles,” said the undisputed crowd favourite, Max Verstappen. He added: “We have to be satisfied with second place. The battle continues. It was super to see so many fans in Austria.“
Mascots at the double
Our Bulli was not left in such a key role at the biggest sports event of the year without a support actor. From high-fives with the F1 stars to selfies with the fans: our mascots were always right in the thick of things at every big fan highlight – from the Pit Lane Walk on Thursday to Meet the Drivers on Saturday and the Styrian Green Carpet on Sunday.
Austrian national anthem, F1 fans, flying aces & musical geniuses
On Sunday, the fans had a very special side programme to enjoy. From 07:00 in the morning, they began to gather in front of the Welcome Center to get the best spots for the Styrian Green Carpet. The fans had the opportunity to see the drivers and teams up close on the green carpet and to get the odd autograph or selfie or two. From 12:35, the Red Bull Legends Parade with its six iconic vehicles from 50 years of F1 history provided some memorable moments at the Red Bull Ring.
Then it all came thick and fast – with the Drivers Parade, Flying Bulls Air Display, Flag Drop and the national anthem interpreted by pianist Rudolf Buchbinder. The fans provided a breathtaking backdrop in the grandstands around the race track. The sea of red, white and red Austrian flags plus green and white flags of the Styria region, together with the orange volcano of the Dutch Verstappen supporters provided for sheer goosebumps.
