Hungary inaugurates its new circuit: the Balaton Park Circuit

Is this the start of a new era for Hungarian motorsport? It looks a lot like it anyway. Used to being the only local route cited internationally, the Hungaroring, located northeast of Budapest, will no longer be the only one. This Wednesday, May 16, the Balaton Park Circuit was inaugurated, established on the banks of the lake bearing the same name, about a hundred kilometers southwest of the Hungarian capital.

© Balaton Park Circuit

« We are very proud to celebrate today the official opening of the Balaton Park Circuit, a unique project that started as a dream and is now a reality thanks to the unwavering commitment of the Balaton Park Group, underlines Gianpaolo Matteucci, member of the council.

The main phase of construction began four years ago and was carried out with particular attention to safety, innovation and the environment. As we prepare to host international motorsport events, Balaton Park Circuit has been built to the highest standards, as required by FIA and FIM regulations. »

The complete route of the Balaton Park Circuit. © Balaton Park Circuit

Balaton Park Circuit, a complete circuit

Designed by local Ferenc Gulácsi, the route meets three very important criteria of its creator: safety, requirements for drivers and durability. “ I'm very happy to have reached the point where the track is ready for usehe smiled. The first flag can already be waved. »

During the launch event, the promoters of the Balaton Park Circuit were able to count on the presence of a certain… Giancarlo Fisichella. Credited with 231 departures in Formula 1 and 3 Grand Prix victories, the former driver Renault said he was amazed by the new Hungarian track. “ When I drove there for the first time, I was impressed by its character, points out the Italian. The circuit really has it all: a thrilling mix of high-speed corners, challenging hairpins and enjoyable chicanes. It's a circuit that flows well, which gives a good driving feeling. The first corner and the end of the opposite straight are prime places for overtaking. Overall, the Balaton Park Circuit is a treat to drive. »

Giancarlo Fisichella got his first impression of the Balaton Park Circuit. ©Balaton Park Circuit

4,115 kilometers long, the Hungarian track is 12 to 15 meters wide depending on the portion, has 16 turns (6 right and 10 left) and turns counterclockwise. The pit lane has 48 garages and there are three different paddocks, all adjacent. It was also built to obtain FIA Grade 1.

Concerning spectators, the stands of the Balaton Park Circuit can accommodate 10.000 permanently. This figure can, however, rise to 120.000 with the installation of temporary stands. In the future, the circuit will have a 4-star hotel currently under construction (ready in 2024) but also a museum and various activities for fans.

VIDEO - Relive Esteban Ocon's victory at the 2021 Hungarian Grand Prix