Hungaroring Celebrates 40th F1 Hungarian Grand Prix with Modern Upgrades and High Stakes

The Hungaroring is set to host the 40th edition of the Formula 1 Hungarian Grand Prix this weekend, welcoming fans and teams to a freshly renovated venue that reflects decades of motorsport tradition and a bold push into the future.

Major upgrades have transformed the Mogyoród circuit ahead of the milestone event. Although renovation works are ongoing, construction has been temporarily paused to ensure the facility presents its best face for the international broadcast. According to organizers, enhancements include a new main building, expanded paddock, modern garages, and upgraded grandstands, all aimed at creating a world-class experience for teams and spectators.

The Hungarian Grand Prix has long been a place for surprises and career-defining wins. Oscar Piastri, now leading the championship, claimed his first Formula 1 victory at the Hungaroring just last year. His McLaren teammate Lando Norris is also considered a top contender for this weekend’s 70-lap showdown, given the team’s current dominance. McLaren enters the race having secured three consecutive 1–2 finishes, a feat unmatched since 2019.

However, history suggests the Hungarian circuit does not always favour the obvious favourites. Several drivers like Damon Hill, Fernando Alonso, Jenson Button, and Esteban Ocon secured their first F1 victories here, often against the odds. Piastri himself is part of that tradition.

Eyes will also be on Red Bull, which is going through a leadership change, and on defending champion Max Verstappen. Despite no longer having the fastest car, Verstappen remains the closest challenger to McLaren’s rising stars.

Ferrari and Mercedes both approach the race as wildcards. Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc has enjoyed consistent podium finishes this season, while seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, now in his final season with Mercedes before joining Ferrari, has won at the Hungaroring a record eight times. His last victory here came in 2020. Meanwhile, Mercedes rookie Andrea Kimi Antonelli and 2022 polesitter George Russell are both in the hunt to shake up the leaderboard.

The midfield promises equally tight battles as the season crosses its halfway point. While Williams lags behind the top four teams, it enjoys a comfortable cushion from the back of the grid. Sauber, Aston Martin, Haas, and RB are all locked in a tight fight for points. Alpine, however, is unlikely to stage a significant turnaround in Budapest.

Off the track, Hungaroring Sport Zrt and the city of Budapest are embracing the anniversary with side events ranging from a treasure hunt to Formula 1-themed attractions at iconic city landmarks like Heroes’ Square and the Chain Bridge.

‘We keep pressing, and hopefully soon we’ll be in a position to challenge them even harder’

This weekend’s race also marks a milestone for Hamilton, who will compete in his 370th Grand Prix, while Fernando Alonso extends his own record to 415 races.

‘I’m excited for the weekend. I love the Hungarian GP. Budapest is an awesome city, and the track’s got a cool vibe,’ said Piastri, reflecting on his breakthrough win. Norris also shared fond memories of the circuit, which he says suits his driving style better than Spa.

Meanwhile, Leclerc said Ferrari remains focused on pushing back against McLaren: ‘We keep pressing, and hopefully soon we’ll be in a position to challenge them even harder.’

Supporting races this weekend include Formula 2, Formula 3, and the Porsche Supercup. The main event—the 70-lap F1 Grand Prix—starts Sunday at 3pm and will be broadcast live on M4 Sport throughout the weekend.

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