Austrian Grand Prix 1964 - Race Schedule and Countdown

Lorenzo Bandini scored a breakthrough victory at the inaugural Austrian Grand Prix at Zeltweg, though the race proved to be a disaster that would not return to the calendar for six years. The Ferrari driver inherited the win after leader Graham Hill retired, capitalizing on attrition to claim his first Grand Prix victory. Bandini's triumph demonstrated his potential as a future championship contender and provided Ferrari with valuable points in their constructors' championship chase.

The Zeltweg airfield circuit proved completely unsuitable for Formula 1, with its rough runway surface destroying cars and tires throughout the weekend. The bumpy conditions caused numerous mechanical failures and prompted widespread criticism from drivers and teams. The race would be remembered as one of Formula 1's organizational disasters, with Austria not returning to the calendar until the purpose-built Österreichring opened in 1970. Despite the chaos, Bandini's composed drive earned him his maiden victory and established him as Ferrari's rising star alongside John Surtees.