Il Austrian Grand Prix is one of the most anticipated and loved races in the Formula 1 calendar. Since its creation, the Red Bull Ring circuit, initially known as the Österreichring and A1-Ring, has always offered emotions and surprises, as well as an evocative landscape between the mountains of Styria. This is the home track for Red Bull – and for the dominant Max Verstappen. The Austrian team has never missed an appointment with victory this season. Ferrari arrives in Austria, on another track that could adapt well to the characteristics of the SF-23 evo which on Tuesday was able to run at Fiorano for the filming day. The Maranello team is the last winner of the Austrian GP. Right at the enemy's home, in 2022 he took the last success of the season in Spielberg with Charles Leclerc, also taking advantage of a problem with Verstappen's car. Like last year in Austria we will have a weekend Sprint, which this year debuted with a new format. Forecasts weather they are rather uncertain, and give rain for all three days. But let's see our advice at Fanta F1 for this weekend.
Who to deploy at Fanta F1
The spectacular fight between Alonso, Hamilton in Canada and the recovery of the Ferraris in the last two races, thanks to the updates arrived, they make us foresee that in Austria too there will be the opportunity to see an even more heated and uncertain challenge in the lower positions of the podium. The podium itself has become a taboo for Sergio Perez, Whose position is seriously at risk given the Mexican's disappointing results than in eight participations in the Austrian GP he never went higher than sixth place.
If the back to back between Austria and Silverstone also goes badly, the team could consider a replacement with Daniel Ricciardo, third Red Bull driver from 2023.
For this weekend we cannot rely on track data or simulations given that qualifying will already start on Friday, after just one free practice session. But let's see the team we could field for the weekend. For this weekend we choose an alternative team with a base of 100 Masi. If you want to go classic, the pairing Verstappen (39 Masi) – Alonso (24 Farms) it is the most reliable, even if you would have few credits left for the rest of the team.
Hamilton – Leclerc – Norris – Hulkenberg – Albon
Fanta F1 Predictions
Let's look at the weekend forecast, also considering the weather.
Safety Car in the race: YES
Virtual Safety Car: YES
Red flag: NO
Drivers distinguish between wet/full wet tires in the race: YES
Team double in the race: NO
Driver who starts from pole wins the race: YES
(Pole for Sunday, with the new Sprint format is assigned on Friday)
Number of teams to bring both riders into the top 10: 4
