2025 Austrian Grand Prix Qualifying Report: Rookies Shine in Q3
The 2025 Formula 1 season continues to unveil promising talent, with five drivers contesting their first full season. The Austrian Grand Prix qualifying session showcased notable performances, particularly from rookies Liam Lawson, Gabriel Bortoleto, and Andrea Kimi Antonelli, all of whom advanced to Q3.
Liam Lawson (Racing Bulls) – 6th Place
Lawson secured a commendable 6th position, marking him as the highest-placed driver from Red Bull Racing on home soil. Reflecting on the session, the 23-year-old expressed satisfaction, stating, “The team has been doing a really good job to keep chasing it." Lawson emphasized the need for consistent performance, remarking on the incremental gains he and his team have achieved: "To make a little step from practice three and put everything together was a very good feeling." He remains cautious about the race day, noting, “Tomorrow’s the important day.”
Gabriel Bortoleto (Sauber) – 8th Place
Bortoleto, the reigning F2 champion, finished 8th and is optimistic about breaking his points drought this season. He noted, “I feel like the track is very special for me. I’m getting more comfortable with the car and team, and it feels like things are clicking.” Bortoleto aims for continued progress, stating, “It’s very promising and hopefully we can achieve this type of qualifying every single time."
Andrea Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes) – 9th Place
Antonelli, qualifying in 9th, was disappointed due to a timing mishap that prevented him from completing a final flying lap. He stated, “I missed the flag, so I couldn’t do the last lap… It was a shame because I was improving quite a lot.” Despite the setback, he expressed optimism: “It’s a track that offers a lot of racing. Hopefully, with a good pace, we can move forward.”
Conclusion
As the new generation of drivers continues to gain momentum, the Austrian Grand Prix promises to be a significant test for these rookies against a backdrop of established veterans. All eyes will be on the track as Lawson, Bortoleto, and Antonelli vie for valuable race points on race day.
