Austrian Grand Prix 2024 - Race Schedule and Countdown

George Russell claimed a surprise victory at the Austrian Grand Prix after Max Verstappen and Lando Norris dramatically collided while battling for the lead in the closing laps. The race at Red Bull's home circuit descended into controversy when the championship protagonists made contact, sending both drivers spinning and gifting Mercedes an unexpected win.

Verstappen started from pole position and led the early stages, but Norris applied relentless pressure throughout the race. The McLaren driver closed to within DRS range in the final laps, setting up a thrilling wheel-to-wheel battle. As Norris attempted to overtake around the outside, the two made contact - Verstappen was deemed predominantly at fault and received a 10-second time penalty, while Norris suffered a puncture that dropped him out of the points entirely. The incident marked a flashpoint in their intensifying rivalry.

Russell, running a quiet third, inherited the lead and cruised to his second win of the season. Oscar Piastri secured second place for McLaren, capitalizing on the chaos ahead, while Carlos Sainz completed the podium for Ferrari. Fernando Alonso set the fastest lap. The controversial collision sparked heated debate about racing standards and intensified the championship battle between the two title contenders.