SPIELBERG, Austria (AFP) - A motor racing fan will wave the chequered flag at the end of this weekend's Austrian Grand Prix, believed to be a first in Formula One.

The fan will be the winner of a photo and video contest at the Red Bull Ring circuit.

Red Bull drivers Daniel Ricciardo and Max Verstappen backed the idea and said they felt that it was an honour to have a chance to wave the flag.

"It's awesome that a fan gets to finish the race for us in Austria," said Ricciardo.

"If I was a kid and I got the opportunity to do that, I'd be blown away."

Organisers on Thursday confirmed the plan, created through an initiative involving the promoters and the sport's ruling body, the FIA.

Celebrities, including football legend Pele, have been given the job before but never a fan.