Ciao Vale!
If a pensioner manages to steal the show from the MotoGP stars still active in the sport, then there’s only one person it could possibly – yes, exactly – Valentino Rossi! Although ‘Il Dottore’ announced his retirement at the Red Bull Ring in 2021, his presence is still felt everywhere. Today, there were neon yellow V46 T-shirts and caps to be seen flashing in the crowd of fans at Spielberg. Some fans caught Valentino Rossi arriving in the paddock and were lucky enough to get an autograph from the nine-time world champion.
Rossi is still involved in MotoGP, though nowadays in the role of team boss. And in the spirit of a Hollywood movie, it was his protégé, Marco Bezzecchi, who secured the top qualifying spot on Friday. If you are already the holder of a ticket for the MotoGP weekend, you can look forward to two days of thrilling racing and entertainment.
Close- closer – closest: Spielberg
Fans rarely get as close up to their idols as they do at Spielberg. Friday’s Meet the Riders session was once again a major attraction for selfie and autograph hunters. Another popular photo opportunity on Friday was provided by Fabio Wibmer. In the normal course of his work, the Tyrolean jumps out of helicopters, balances on the railings of dams and swoops down ski slopes, but at Spielberg he let Luc Ackermann and the other motocross acrobats take centre stage as they amazed the audience with their backflips at the Red Bull Masters of Dirt FMX Show.
For motorbike pilgrims who are still to arrive at Spielberg, we have some reassuring news: Saturday and Sunday will continue in the same vein, with thrilling racing action, FMX and stunt shows as well as the Hero Walk on the Styrian Green Carpet. Fans who only make up their mind at the last minute can still secure their ticket on the day at the box offices. These are open daily from 08:00.
Soak up the sun in the Spritzer garden
Between the action on and off the track, fans were able to laze about in the Spritzer garden on the grassy area in MotoGP Bike City. The sun loungers proved an irresistible temptation to linger and sunbathe. This chill-out location offers delicious fizzy creations such as Apricot and Melon Spritzer. The garden is also a hot spot for souvenir photos. The classic pose is waving in front of the Austrian GP sign. If you post your photos on social media with the hashtag #redbullring, you’re more than likely to see yourself on our social wall.
More photo spots at the Red Bull Ring:
- Five-metre-tall Selfie Tower in the standing room area
- A large-scale replica of the winner’s trophy in the direction of T10
- Vehicle exhibition in the MotoGP Bike City
- Our two mascots are happy to be pose for photos with motorsport fans
