GPUpdate
A1-Ring ~ Austria
| Circuit: | A1-Ring |
| Country: | Austria |
| Length: | 0 |
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1970 saw the first race at the popular A1-ring, which is set in magnificent countryside, with high-speed sweeps, and majestic corners. Jacky Ickx won that first race for Ferrari. This is the fastest track on the schedule, a favorite for many, and it sees many an unusual winner.
In 1975, heavy rain stopped the race, with Vittorio Brambilla leading, This enabled him to take his only Grand Prix victory, which was marred when he crashed on his victory lap.
American driver, Mark Donohue, sustained injuries when he crashed that morning, and a chicane was built at the Hella Licht Kurve as a result.
John Watson won his, and Penske's only win in 1976, and in 1977, Alan Jones won his maiden victory.
1978 saw another rain filled race, with Ronnie Peterson securing his final race win, before his tragic death.
Niki Lauder finally won his home race in 1984, with Alain Prost winning in 83, 85 and 86.
Nigel Mansel took the win in 87, banging his head on a girder while being driven to the podium. The race itself was started three times, after massive pile-ups, and this is why the event was dropped, returning ten years later, with modifications.
Jacques Villenueve took the win for Williams in 1997 and since the circuit has seen some controversial results such as Ferrari's obvious team orders on the final lap of the 2002 event.