Austrian Grand Prix 2025: pre-qualifying

In the first practice of Austria Russell was top dog, less than a tenth ahead of Verstappen. Piastri was a tenth further back with Dunne (standing in for Norris at McLaren) close behind. Gasly and Bortoleto were a surprising 5th and 6th, with Albon and Sainz following and Hamilton and Hadjar rounding out the top 10.

Second practice saw Norris return and go fastest, a tenth and a half ahead of Piastri. Verstappen was a similar margin further back. Then we enter the twilight zone with Lance Stroll in 4th. Leclerc and Russell were two-tenths off the Canadian, and then came Tsunoda, Bortoleto, Alonso, and Hamilton.

At this stage McLaren are looking good, and Bortoleto seems to really like the circuit. Verstappen’s also at the sharp end, perhaps Russell too.

I was wondering about backing Bortoleto for points but he was only 3.5 after second practice which seems nuts given there are only a few places, tight competition, and the fact he’s never scored.

Norris also topped FP3, a tenth ahead of Piastri, with Verstappen a tenth further back. Leclerc was only four-hundredths off Verstappen, but two-tenths ahead of Hamilton. Russell and Antonelli followed, Stroll only just behind the Italian, with Tsunoda and Bortoleto rounding out the top 10.



Right now it could be a five horse race between the McLarens, Verstappen, Russell, and Leclerc. The Ferrari upgrades appear to be working well. Both Red Bulls had spins that brought out brief yellow flags in third practice.

Also worth noting Bortoleto’s been top 10 every session.

Had a slightly odd bet this time around I’ve backed Russell each way at 26 (boosted to 29) on Ladbrokes and set up a hedge on Betfair at 5 (to cover the stake if he doesn’t win). I think he could be in with a shot.

I also discovered I had a £5 free bet available on Betfair so threw it on Leclerc at 45, with a similar hedge set up. This isn’t a tip, but if you also discover a free bet, might be worth considering.



Let’s hope Norris chokes, Verstappen spins, and Russell defies the odds.



Morris

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