Styrian GP 2021: Why is the F1 race Called the Styrian Grand Prix & What Does it Mean?

Last year, Formula One experimented with the idea of double-headers, By definition, a double-header takes place when two races are held at the same venue in succession. Aside from being the season opener, Austria hosted the first double header, with the Austrian Grand Prix. After that, the second race was renamed the Styrian Grand Prix.

Of course, this does beg the question why the name was changed? One answer is that Formula One wanted to distinguish between the races, so that people do not view them as a repeat of the previous race. Another answer is that the Red Bull Ring is located in the southern Austrian state of Styria.

What to expect from the Styrian Grand Prix?

Admittedly, the race weekend will be quite fascinating. The Red Bull team enter this race high on confidence and with the championship lead. However, this is a track where the Mercedes team have generally performed well at. On the other end of the scale, Red Bull will be eager to win on home soil.

One thing is for sure, there will be a no holds barred dogfight between Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen. For a long time, many thought that Hamilton was invincible and would go unchallenged to a record-breaking 8th title. However, Red Bull has seemingly pulled up its socks and mounted its strongest attack yet.

Verstappen proved on Sunday that he can and will take on Lewis Hamilton in a straight fight. However, he will be sure to watch out for relation from Mercedes. Both Red Bull and Mercedes know that both of their drivers are needed to mount a charge for the constructor’s championship. At the same time, they need to be wary of other teams trying to catch up to them, like McLaren who have just moved up to 3rd in the ranks.

READ MORE: Styrian Grand Prix F1 Schedule: When Is the Next F1 Race After French GP?