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Choosing a grandstand at the Austrian Grand Prix
Sunday December 6 2026
What to expect in this guide
• Where do you get the best view at the Red Bull Ring?
• Where are the main grandstands?
• Are the grandstands covered?
• What about General Admission?
Estimated Reading Time: 4-5 minutes
The Red Bull Ring is one of the shortest circuits on the Formula 1 calendar, and most of the lap is visible from a number of grandstands. The track sits in a natural amphitheatre, with elevation changes that open up wider views than at most circuits.
Most of the on-track overtaking happens between Turns 1, 3, and 4.
Having sat in more than one of the grandstands here myself, my view is that there’s no bad seat at the Red Bull Ring. Choose the part of the lap you most want to watch and go from there.
The Main Grandstand is the only covered grandstand at the circuit. Every other grandstand is uncovered.
Where the grandstands are
Main Grandstand
The Main Grandstand runs along the start-finish straight, opposite the pit lane. From here you see the grid build-up, the start, the cars accelerating to Turn 1, the pit lane in action through the race, and the chequered flag. It’s the only covered grandstand at the circuit.
Steiermark Grandstand (Turn 1)
The Steiermark Grandstand, also known as the Lauda Grandstand in memory of Niki Lauda, sits at Turn 1, the first corner of the lap. From here you see the run down from the start-finish straight, the braking zone into the corner, the pit lane exit, and the climb up to Turn 2. It’s a strong location for the start of the race.
Red Bull Grandstands
The Red Bull Grandstands sit between Turn 1 and Turn 3, on the outside of the long uphill straight that climbs through the middle sector. From here you can follow the cars across a long section of the lap.
Turn 3 Grandstand
Turn 3 is one of the main overtaking zones at the circuit. The grandstand sits at the top of the hill, at the heaviest braking zone on the track. You see the cars at the end of the climb from Turn 1, the braking into Turn 3, and the run down to Turn 4.
Turn 4 Grandstand
Turn 4 is another overtaking zone, just after Turn 3. The grandstand here puts you close to the action where drivers complete passes started at Turn 3, or set up a move into the corner.
Turn 9 / 10 Grandstand
The grandstand at the final corners sits across from the cars as they come through the last quick right-left and back onto the start-finish straight. It’s a good spot for late-race battles and the run to the chequered flag.
FAQ's
No. The Red Bull Ring is short, and most of the lap is visible from a number of grandstands.
Between Turns 1, 3, and 4, where the track has its heaviest braking zones.
Only the Main Grandstand is covered. Every other grandstand at the Red Bull Ring is uncovered.
Yes. The natural elevation around the circuit means many General Admission areas have decent views.
The race takes place in late June or early July. Weather in the Styrian Alps can be warm and sunny, or cool and wet. Pack for both.
Money-saving tip
Consider General Admission
The Red Bull Ring has good General Admission viewing thanks to the elevation around the circuit. If you’re on a tight budget, it’s worth considering.
Introducing the Austrian Grand Prix
In this guide you'll learn about the Red Bull Ring, the circuit's location in the Styria region, and how a race weekend works.
Where to stay for the Austrian Grand Prix
In this guide we'll help you choose the best place to stay during your trip to the Austrian Grand Prix.
Getting to the Austrian Grand Prix
In this guide you'll learn about how to get to Austria for the Austrian Grand Prix.
Getting Around at the Austrian Grand Prix
In this guide you'll learn about the different options for getting around during the Austrian Grand Prix.
Short lap. Big drama in the Styrian Alps
What to expect in this guide • Why the Austrian Grand Prix should be on your F1 bucket list • Where is the circuit? • Travelling to Austria: what you need to know • How many days should you spend at the Austrian Grand Prix? • Austrian Grand Prix weekend schedule at a glance •…
