F1 LIVE | Austrian Grand Prix: FP1

The Austrian Grand Prix is the last race of the Triple Header. After victories in France and Styria, Max Verstappen is the favourtie to finish this series strongly with another victory at the Red Bull Ring. In FP1, we'll get our first idea on whether Mercedes have been able to close the gap during the week. Don't miss anything from the first session of the Austrian GP with this live blog from GPblog.

LIVEBLOG | First free practice session

Just like in 2020 the Formula 1 will race twice at the Red Bull Ring in 2021. A week ago it was the turn of the Styrian Grand Prix, and the circuit returns under the name of the Austrian GP. 

Verstappen in control on the Red Bull Ring

Verstappen and Red Bull Racing were the masters of the first race at the Red Bull Ring. Verstappen qualified almost two tenths quicker than number two, Valtteri Bottas, and would eventually finish over thirty seconds ahead of Lewis Hamilton in the race. The chances of Mercedes bridging this gap in a week's time are extremely slim.

The first free practice session is normally about determining the setup and testing new parts. Since the drivers drove on the track last week they will need less time for the setup. We can expect a lot of fast and short runs in the first session of this weekend.