Qualifying Results 2023 Austrian F1 Sprint

Event: Austrian F1 Grand Prix
Track: Red Bull Ring

Weather: dry  16°C
Tarmac: dry  21°C
Humidity: 84%
Wind: 2.1 km/h SW
Pressure: 1011 bar

Max Verstappen qualified as quickest for the Sprint race later today. The Red Bull driver scored his maiden Sprint race pole position and also the first Sprint pole for the Red Bull Racing.

Red Bull Dominate Under Tricky Conditions

Sprint Showdown at Red Bull Ring

On a damp Austrian morning, Formula 1 fans were buzzing with anticipation as the second Sprint weekend of the season at the Red Bull Ring unfolded with an all-new format. In stark contrast to yesterday’s conditions, today’s track was damp, thanks to the rain, causing the drivers to make vital tyre choices.

Verstappen Shines; Perez Redeems Himself

Yesterday, Max Verstappen barely outperformed Charles Leclerc to clinch the pole position, with Carlos Sainz in third. Lando Norris displayed an outstanding performance qualifying fourth, ahead of Lewis Hamilton. However, Red Bull’s Sergio Perez had a bleak day after his time was deleted three times for exceeding track limits.

The rain brought a fresh opportunity for Perez and others to redeem themselves. The new format usually dictates the usage of new mediums in SQ1 and SQ2, followed by soft tyres in SQ3. However, the rain meant drivers had the freedom to choose their tires.

Uncertainty and Strategy

As the track started to dry, we saw an intense tussle between drivers. The two Williams drivers were the first to take to the track, with everyone except Albon and Sargeant opting for drier tyres. But as the conditions evolved, the latter two switched to softs.

Thrilling Moments

Sainz's Ferrari faced initial troubles as smoke bellowed from the rear brakes. Meanwhile, Verstappen set the pace, with Hamilton hot on his heels.

As the clock ticked down, Norris set a blistering pace, followed closely by Alonso. Albon, having switched to softs, managed to outdo Norris's time. Times were tumbling as drivers pushed their limits.

Perez managed to set the fastest time, followed by Verstappen, while Hamilton fell to traffic woes and couldn’t put in a competitive lap.

SQ1 Climax

Sainz came back strong, setting the fastest time. A major upset was Hamilton getting eliminated, leaving Mercedes in a gloomy mood. Kudos to Sainz and Ferrari for making it through under pressure.

The Intensity Continues in SQ2

Verstappen led the pack as SQ2 started. George Russell faced mechanical issues, rendering him unable to participate. Times dropped quickly; Verstappen was leading, but Alonso and Sainz were not far behind.

Leclerc had a difficult time initially but managed to squeeze into SQ3. Mercedes confirmed Russell’s exit from the Shootout due to hydraulic issues. The Haas team showed impressive performance, with both drivers advancing to SQ3.

The Final Showdown: SQ3

As SQ3 started, Verstappen led once again, seemingly unshaken by a puff of smoke from his car. The Dutchman was flying on the track, laying down a time that seemed untouchable. Norris and Perez battled for second place.

Leclerc and Sainz positioned themselves behind the front-runners, with Hulkenberg making a remarkable effort to land just behind Norris. Red Bull locked out the front row with Verstappen taking pole position and Perez alongside him.

A Disappointing Day for Mercedes and Mixed Results for Ferrari

Mercedes had a day to forget, with Hamilton failing to progress past SQ1 and Russell facing mechanical issues. Meanwhile, Ferrari had a mixed day; they showed pace but couldn’t match Red Bull’s dominance.

Final Thoughts

With Red Bull's Verstappen and Perez leading the pack, we are set for an exhilarating Sprint race. Norris will also be someone to keep an eye on, given his exceptional form. The changing track conditions and the new format made this

qualifying session a truly memorable one, as drivers and teams had to think on their feet and adapt their strategies to the evolving track conditions.

With Red Bull locking out the front row, it seems they have the upper hand heading into the Sprint race. However, the likes of Norris, Leclerc, and Sainz will be gunning for a strong result and could challenge the Red Bull duo if the conditions remain unpredictable.

As for Mercedes, they will have their work cut out for them. Hamilton, known for his race craft, will be eager to make amends and fight through the field, but with the shorter race format, he will have less time to make his moves. The team will have to devise a perfect strategy for him to maximize his chances.

The unexpected performances from Haas and Hulkenberg also add an extra layer of intrigue to the Sprint race. Will they be able to keep up with the front-runners, or was their performance a one-off due to the unique circumstances of the qualifying session?

Also, the weather might play a significant role during the race. If rain showers decide to make an appearance during the Sprint race, it could throw another wrench into the strategies of the teams and make for an even more exciting and unpredictable race.

Quali Times 2023 Austrian F1 Sprint

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