The much-anticipated Hungarian Grand Prix is set to take place at the famed Hungaroring circuit from July 21st to 23rd this year. Prior to this event, Formula 1 enthusiasts were treated to an exhilarating race at Silverstone in England. Following the Budapest showdown, the action moves to the renowned Grand Prix of Spa-Franchorchamps in Belgium. The Formula 1 summer season is shaping up to be an enthralling spectacle!

Exploring the Budapest Grand Prix – Hungary GP
The journey to bring a Grand Prix event to Eastern Europe began in the 1980s. Initially favoring Moscow, the focus eventually shifted to Budapest, a move welcomed by local authorities eager to reintroduce Hungary to the world of motorsport.
To accommodate such a prestigious event, the Hungaroring, a new racing circuit, was constructed about 20 kilometers east of Budapest. Construction started in 1985 and was completed swiftly by the next year. The inaugural Grand Prix in Hungary took place in August 1986, drawing an impressive crowd of almost 200,000 spectators.
The Hungaroring is known for its narrow layout, featuring 16 challenging turns. The track’s design makes overtaking a rare sight, emphasizing the importance of strategic pit stops. A memorable example of strategic brilliance was Michael Schumacher’s victory at the 1998 Hungarian Grand Prix, where a mid-race strategy shift by Ferrari played a crucial role.
This race often signifies the start of Formula 1’s second half and can significantly impact the championship race. The Budapest Grand Prix is a pivotal event for teams and drivers to garner crucial points and maintain momentum.
Despite its infrequent use, resulting in a dusty surface, the Hungaroring boasts a unique charm and presents a formidable challenge for drivers, requiring a blend of skill and strategic acumen.
Over the years, the Budapest Grand Prix has become a hallmark event in the Formula 1 calendar, attracting fans globally with its unique track and vibrant atmosphere. It’s a race that combines the thrill of competition, strategic depth, and the picturesque backdrop of Budapest into an unforgettable Formula 1 experience.
Hungary GP: The Hungaroring Circuit Layout
Since 1986, the Hungaroring has been a regular fixture in the Grand Prix calendar, a notable feat given Hungary’s then-status as part of the Eastern Bloc.
The original track was 4.014 kilometers long, with races spanning 76 laps, totaling 305.064 kilometers. With an average speed of 151.8 km/h, races often exceeded two hours. In 2003, the track underwent significant renovations, extending its length to 4.381 kilometers and adding 202 meters to the start/finish straight. These modifications brought the track up to modern standards and introduced new dynamics and overtaking opportunities into races.
Champions of the Hungary GP
Year | Pilot | Team |
---|---|---|
2022 | Max Verstappen | Red Bull Racing |
2021 | Esteban Ocon | Alpine Renault |
2020 | Lewis Hamilton | Mercedes |
2019 | Lewis Hamilton | Mercedes |
2018 | Lewis Hamilton | Mercedes |
2017 | Sebastian Vettel | Ferrari |
2016 | Lewis Hamilton | Mercedes |
2015 | Sebastian Vettel | Ferrari |
2014 | Daniel Ricciardo | Red Bull Renault |
2013 | Lewis Hamilton | Mercedes |
2012 | Lewis Hamilton | McLaren Mercedes |
2011 | Jenson Button | McLaren Mercedes |
2010 | Mark Webber | Red Bull Renault |
2009 | Lewis Hamilton | McLaren Mercedes |
2008 | Heikki Kovalainen | McLaren Mercedes |
2007 | Lewis Hamilton | McLaren Mercedes |
2006 | Jenson Button | Honda |
2005 | Kimi Räikkönen | McLaren Mercedes |
2004 | Michael Schumacher | Ferrari |
2003 | Fernando Alonso | Renault |
2002 | Rubens Barrichello | Ferrari |
2001 | Michael Schumacher | Ferrari |
2000 | Mika Häkkinen | McLaren Mercedes |
1999 | Mika Häkkinen | McLaren Mercedes |
1998 | Michael Schumacher | Ferrari |
1997 | Jacques Villeneuve | Williams Renault |
1996 | Jacques Villeneuve | Williams Renault |
1995 | Damon Hill | Williams Renault |
1994 | Michael Schumacher | Benetton Ford |
1993 | Damon Hill | Williams Renault |
1992 | Ayrton Senna | McLaren Honda |
1991 | Ayrton Senna | McLaren Honda |
1990 | Thierry Boutsen | Williams Renault |
1989 | Nigel Mansell | Ferrari |
1988 | Ayrton Senna | McLaren Honda |
1987 | Nelson Piquet | Williams Honda |
1986 | Nelson Piquet | Williams Honda |
Streaming Formula 1 Races for free
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