F1 sending out a strong message to the world with racing return - Mateschitz

Formula 1 is to send "a strong sign of feasibility to the world", according to Red Bull owner Dietrich Mateschitz following confirmation of an eight-race European start to the 2020 season.

F1 will finally spring into life this year on July 5 with the Austrian Grand Prix at the Red Bull Ring, followed a week later by a second race at the circuit entitled the Steiermark GP, named after the region in which the track resides.

Despite the races to go ahead without fans, Mateschitz believes F1 will be posting a resilient message.

"We take on this challenge unique in the history of F1, and we are looking forward to both weekends," said Mateschitz.

"Spielberg will see exciting races, and therefore send a strong sign of feasibility to the whole world.”

The venue naturally represents two home races for Red Bull, with Max Verstappen emerging victorious on the last two occasions, albeit supported by huge swathes of orange-clad fans.

Red Bull team principal Christian Horner believes it is finally time for F1 to again put on a show.

“Red Bull has pulled out all the stops to get the Austrian Grand Prix up and running, in order to support a safe start to the Formula One season," said Horner.

"It’s a fantastic venue and we are pleased to be starting our championship campaign at our home circuit. It has been a huge effort by all involved and the two events at the Red Bull Ring will be a blueprint for all other races to follow.

"There was obviously a huge amount of discussion behind the scenes with Liberty, the FIA and the local authorities to ensure that returning to racing is done responsibly and we all have our part to play in order to enforce the measures in place.

"With the first eight races of the calendar now confirmed we have some positive momentum. As a race team and racers, we are excited to get going again and put on a show for our fans.”

Before you go...

Official: F1 confirms eight-race European start to 2020 season

Horner sees shades of Vettel in Verstappen

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