The 2025 Formula 1 Austrian Grand Prix, set to take place from June 27 to June 29 at the iconic Red Bull Ring in Spielberg, Austria, is the 11th round of the 2025 F1 season. As one of the most picturesque and action-packed races on the calendar, the Austrian Grand Prix promises thrilling battles, stunning alpine scenery, and a vibrant atmosphere fueled by passionate fans, particularly the orange-clad supporters of Red Bull’s Max Verstappen. Whether you’re a seasoned F1 enthusiast or a newcomer eager to catch the high-speed drama, this comprehensive guide will walk you through how to watch the 2025 Austrian Grand Prix, the best sources for live coverage, and everything you need to know to make the most of this exhilarating race weekend.
Why the 2025 Austrian Grand Prix Is a Must-Watch Event
The Austrian Grand Prix, held at the Red Bull Ring, is renowned for its compact yet challenging 4.318-kilometer (2.683-mile) circuit, nestled in the Styrian mountains. With only 10 corners and a lap time expected to be in the 1:03 range for pole position, the track is one of the shortest on the F1 calendar, making it a fast and furious spectacle. The circuit’s three consecutive DRS (Drag Reduction System) zones, particularly from the main straight to Turn 4, create ample overtaking opportunities, ensuring action-packed racing. Past races have seen dramatic moments, such as the 2024 collision between Max Verstappen and Lando Norris, which handed Mercedes’ George Russell an unexpected victory.
This year, the 2025 season is heating up with McLaren’s Oscar Piastri leading the Drivers’ Championship by 22 points over teammate Lando Norris, while Verstappen, a four-time winner at this circuit, aims to close the 43-point gap on Red Bull’s home turf. With Mercedes showing renewed pace and Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc always a threat, the Austrian Grand Prix is poised to deliver unpredictable outcomes.
How to Watch the 2025 Austrian Grand Prix: Global Viewing Options
The Austrian Grand Prix will be broadcast live across various platforms worldwide, with options ranging from traditional TV to streaming services. Below is a detailed breakdown of how to watch the race, qualifying, and practice sessions, tailored to major regions.
United Kingdom
In the UK, Sky Sports F1 is the go-to destination for comprehensive F1 coverage. Every session, from Free Practice 1 on Friday, June 27, at 12:30 PM BST to the Grand Prix on Sunday, June 29, at 2:00 PM BST, will be broadcast live. Sky Sports subscribers can also access the Sky Go app for streaming on mobile devices or follow onboard camera feeds for a driver’s-eye view. For those without a Sky subscription, NOW TV offers a contract-free Day or Month Membership to stream all sessions live. Additionally, Channel 4 provides free highlights of every session, typically available shortly after the chequered flag, making it an excellent option for casual viewers.
United States
American F1 fans can watch the Austrian Grand Prix live on ESPN2 and ESPN Deportes, with coverage starting at 8:55 AM ET on Sunday, June 29. Streaming options include ESPN+, which offers live coverage of all sessions, and FuboTV, a sports-focused streaming service that carries ESPN channels. F1 TV Pro is another excellent choice, providing ad-free coverage, onboard cameras, and commentary in six languages, with sessions available in 4K Ultra HD for F1 TV Premium subscribers.
Austria
For fans in Austria, the race is a home event, and free-to-air options make it accessible. ORF and Servus TV will each broadcast 12 races for free in 2025, including the Austrian Grand Prix. These channels cover practice, qualifying, and the race, ensuring local fans can cheer on Red Bull without a subscription.
Other Countries
- Spain: DAZN holds exclusive rights to F1 in Spain, offering live coverage of all sessions for €9.99 a month with no contract.
- Mexico: Fox Sports Premium will broadcast the race live, while Canal 5 offers free-to-air coverage for select races, though it’s unclear if the Austrian GP is included. F1 TV Pro is also available for $5.99 a month.
- Brazil: Band Sports provides live coverage, with F1 TV Pro as a streaming alternative.
- Japan: DAZN and Fuji TV share F1 broadcasting rights, offering live streams and TV coverage.
- France: Canal+ broadcasts all sessions live, with select races like Monaco and the United States available on free-to-air C8.
- Australia: 10Play offers free highlights of every race and a free live stream of the Australian GP, but for the Austrian GP, Fox Sports or F1 TV Pro are the primary options.
For a full list of broadcasters by country, check the official Formula 1 website or platforms like Motorsport.com.
Best Source for Watching the 2025 Austrian Grand Prix
The best source for watching the 2025 Austrian Grand Prix depends on your priorities—whether it’s comprehensive coverage, cost, or additional features like onboard cameras. Here’s a breakdown of the top options:
1. F1 TV Pro: The Ultimate F1 Experience
F1 TV Pro stands out as the premier choice for dedicated F1 fans. Available in select countries (including the US, Mexico, Brazil, and parts of Europe), this service offers:
- Live Coverage: Every practice, qualifying, and race session, plus F2, F3, F1 Academy, and Porsche Supercup races.
- Exclusive Features: Onboard cameras for all 20 drivers, team radio access, and a Multiview feature for personalized viewing.
- 4K Ultra HD: F1 TV Premium subscribers can watch in high-definition with no ad breaks.
- Cost: $5.99/month in some regions, making it a cost-effective alternative to traditional broadcasters.
- Accessibility: Stream via Apple TV, Chromecast, Android TV, Amazon Fire TV, Roku, or the F1 TV app.
F1 TV Pro is ideal for fans who want to immerse themselves in every aspect of the race weekend, from pre-race shows to post-race analysis. Its global availability and ad-free experience make it a top contender.
2. Sky Sports F1: Comprehensive UK Coverage
For UK viewers, Sky Sports F1 offers unmatched depth, with expert commentary from David Croft, Martin Brundle, and others. The channel’s coverage includes:
- Live Sessions: All practice, qualifying, and race sessions, starting with Free Practice 1 at 12:30 PM BST on Friday.
- Onboard Streams: Access to driver-specific camera feeds and team radio.
- Sky Go App: Stream on mobile devices or watch on-demand highlights.
- NOW TV Option: A flexible, contract-free streaming alternative for non-Sky subscribers.
Sky Sports F1 is perfect for UK fans seeking a polished broadcast with in-depth analysis, though it requires a subscription.
3. Free-to-Air Options: ORF and Servus TV (Austria)
Austrian fans are spoiled with free access via ORF and Servus TV, which broadcast 12 F1 races in 2025, including the Austrian Grand Prix. These channels offer:
- Free Access: No subscription required for live coverage of practice, qualifying, and the race.
- Local Flavor: Commentary tailored to Austrian fans, with a focus on Red Bull and Verstappen.
- Streaming: Available on ORF TVthek and Servus TV’s online platform.
This is the best option for viewers in Austria or those using a VPN to access free streams.
4. ESPN and FuboTV: US Accessibility
In the US, ESPN2 and FuboTV provide reliable coverage. ESPN2 airs the race live at 8:55 AM ET, while FuboTV offers streaming for cord-cutters. Both are excellent for fans who already have cable or streaming subscriptions that include sports channels.
5. Channel 4 (UK): Free Highlights
For UK fans without a subscription, Channel 4 offers free highlights of every session, typically available shortly after each session ends. While not live, this is a great budget-friendly option for catching up on key moments.
Race Weekend Schedule and How to Follow
The 2025 Austrian Grand Prix follows a standard race weekend format, unlike previous years when it included a Sprint race. Here’s the schedule (all times in BST, adjust for your time zone):
- Friday, June 27:
- Free Practice 1: 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM
- Free Practice 2: 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday, June 28:
- Free Practice 3: 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM
- Qualifying: 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
- Sunday, June 29:
- Grand Prix: 2:00 PM (71 laps)
To follow the action, check local listings for precise timings. The official Formula 1 website provides a global schedule, and apps like the F1 TV app or Sky Sports app offer real-time updates and live timing.
Tips for Enhancing Your Viewing Experience
- Use a VPN for Free Streams: Fans outside Austria can use a VPN like NordVPN to access ORF or Servus TV’s free streams. Ensure your VPN is set to an Austrian server for seamless access.
- Follow Live Blogs: Sky Sports and RaceFans offer live blogs for real-time updates, perfect for fans on the move.
- Engage on Social Media: Follow X accounts like @F1, @Motorsport, or @speedcafe for live updates, highlights, and fan discussions.
- Check Weather Forecasts: The Styrian mountains can be unpredictable. The 2025 forecast predicts sunny conditions with temperatures around 28–30°C, but a slight chance of rain on Sunday could shake up the race.
Why the Red Bull Ring Is Special
The Red Bull Ring’s unique layout and history add to its allure. Originally opened as the A1-Ring in 1996, it was redesigned by Hermann Tilke and relaunched in 2011 under Red Bull’s ownership. The circuit’s short length and high-speed corners, like the Rindt right-hander named after Austria’s first F1 champion, Jochen Rindt, make it a driver and fan favorite. Its three DRS zones and elevation changes create thrilling overtaking battles, as seen in past clashes like Verstappen vs. Leclerc in 2019 and Hamilton vs. Rosberg in 2016.
Max Verstappen holds the record for most wins (four) and poles (four) at the Red Bull Ring, but with McLaren’s current form and Mercedes’ resurgence, the 2025 race could see a new winner. The circuit’s compact nature ensures tight racing, and the stunning backdrop of the Styrian Alps makes it one of the most visually spectacular events on the calendar.
Championship Context and Storylines to Watch
The 2025 season is shaping up as one of the most competitive in recent years. Key storylines include:
- McLaren’s Internal Battle: Oscar Piastri leads Lando Norris by 22 points, but their collision in Canada highlights tensions. Can they avoid further clashes?
- Verstappen’s Homecoming: With five Austrian GP wins, Verstappen is under pressure to deliver for Red Bull’s home crowd, especially with penalty points looming.
- Mercedes’ Momentum: George Russell’s Canada win and upgrades for Austria make Mercedes a dark horse. Can rookie Kimi Antonelli score another podium?
- Track Limits: The final two corners have historically caused issues with track limit violations, though gravel traps have mitigated this. Expect Qualifying to be intense as drivers push the limits.
Additional Resources for Fans
- F1 TV App: Download for live timing, driver trackers, and exclusive content.
- Sky Sports App: Offers live blogs, highlights, and onboard streams for UK viewers.
- Official F1 Website: Provides schedules, standings, and news.
- Social Media: Follow #AustrianGP on X for fan reactions and real-time updates.
Conclusion
The 2025 Formula 1 Austrian Grand Prix is set to be a thrilling chapter in an already dramatic season. Whether you’re watching live on F1 TV Pro, tuning into Sky Sports F1 in the UK, catching free streams on ORF in Austria, or following highlights on Channel 4, there’s a viewing option for every fan. For the ultimate experience, F1 TV Pro offers unmatched access with its ad-free, 4K streams and exclusive features, making it the best source for die-hard fans. With McLaren, Red Bull, and Mercedes all in contention, and the Red Bull Ring’s fast, overtaking-friendly layout, this race is not to be missed. Mark your calendar for June 27–29, 2025, and get ready for an unforgettable weekend of Formula 1 action.