Pit Stop #44: A Season of Emotion, Team Spirit, and Triumphs
Once again this summer, Joanneum Racing Graz – FH JOANNEUM’s Formula Student team – traveled across Europe with their self-built race car, the JR25, competing in multiple events. Alongside the pre-event in Hungary, they tackled three official competitions. The results were outstanding: the Weasels brought home two overall victories! In this Pit Stop article, the team reflects on their unforgettable season.
Opening act in Hungary – First tests
The Formula Student 2025 season kicked off at FS Easter in Zalazone, Hungary. For Joanneum Racing Graz, this pre-event was crucial to gather initial experience with the JR25 and collect valuable feedback. The Weasels impressed with three second-place finishes in static events, plus a thrilling Autocross victory on track.
Thermal issues prevented a successful Endurance race, but the experiences gained laid a strong foundation for the season ahead.
Emotional rollercoaster in the Netherlands
In July, FS Netherlands at TT Circuit Assen marked the first official competition. After a 12-hour drive and intense scrutineering, the JR25 was ready for dynamic events. The Weasels shone with 2nd place in Acceleration, 5th in Skidpad, and 4th in Autocross. The static events were equally strong: 4th in Cost & Manufacturing, 6th in Engineering Design, and 7th in Business Presentation. A faulty brake light cost them Endurance – and a higher overall placing. Still, 7th overall was a solid milestone and perfect preparation for their home race at Red Bull Ring.
Pure emotions in the home race at the Red Bull Ring
FS Austria in Spielberg was the season’s highlight. In front of family, friends, and sponsors, the Weasels rode an emotional rollercoaster. After initial scrutineering hurdles, the team showed incredible unity, securing all technical passes in time.
Static events delivered solid results plus the EDAG AI Special Award. Track highlights included a Skidpad victory (after tense moments wondering if the car would even run), 3rd in Endurance, and 1st in Efficiency. They also secured 7th in Autocross and 10th in Acceleration against fierce international competition.
The crowning moment came at awards: “Overall Winner Formula Student Austria 2025 – Joanneum Racing Graz.” The first home victory since 2019 brought unforgettable emotions and a historic moment that none of the Weasels will ever forget.
Title defense in Czech Republic
Finally, the team headed to Most for FS Czech to defend their title from the previous year. One last time, it was time to give it their all! The Weasels once again achieved top results in the Czech Republic: 1st place in the Cost & Manufacturing Event, 2nd place in the Skidpad, victory in the Autocross and 2nd place in the Endurance. With these performances, Joanneum Racing Graz secured its second consecutive overall victory at FS Czech – and crowned the season with a perfect finale.
The trophy for first place in FS Czech made its way to Graz for the second time in a row.
A season that will live forever
The 2025 season was marked by setbacks and successes, but above all by passion, perseverance and team spirit. With the JR25, Joanneum Racing Graz made history and took home not only two overall victories, but also countless memories and pride that no one can take away from them. These successes are proof of the team’s tireless dedication – and motivation for everything that is yet to come.
Even now, the Weasels are already busy building their next race car – true to their motto: NEVER STOP PUSHING!