F1 News: New Track Opens In Hungary After Astonishing £173 Million Investment

The Balaton Park Circuit has opened in Hungary to the FIA's grade-one specifications, so it could potentially be an addition to the F1 calendar in the future.

Hungary has welcomed the inauguration of the Balaton Park Circuit, a brand-new racing track constructed over four years with a staggering investment of £173 million (€200m). The circuit, located near Lake Balaton, spans 4.115 kilometres and boasts 16 turns, operating in an anticlockwise direction. Built to meet the FIA's grade one specifications, which qualify it to host Formula 1 races, the track operators have initially applied for a grade two license.

Situated approximately 100 kilometres southwest of Budapest, the Balaton Park Circuit is distinct from the Hungaroring, which hosts Hungary's F1 Grand Prix near the nation's capital. The Hungaroring holds a contract to remain on the F1 calendar until at least 2027.

🚨| These are the first images of the Balaton Park Circuit in Hungary!

The track has been built following the Grade 1 FIA characteristics (pending from homollogation), and they have hopes to hold an international race in 2024.

Will it replace Hungaroring? 🤔

📷: @Motorsport pic.twitter.com/UZSYCPkGP1

— Formula World (@Formula_World__) May 16, 2023

With a seating capacity for 10,000 spectators and the potential for expansion up to 120,000, the circuit offers ample room for racing enthusiasts. It also features three paddocks and 48 garages, providing a comprehensive infrastructure for teams and participants.

In addition to the existing facilities, the circuit operators have ambitious plans to further enhance the venue. They intend to construct a four-star hotel with a circuit view, scheduled for completion next year. Furthermore, a car museum and other attractions are slated to be added, aiming to create an all-encompassing racing destination.

Renowned Formula 1 driver Giancarlo Fisichella was one of the first individuals to experience the new circuit firsthand. He expressed his admiration for its design and character, describing it as a captivating blend of high-speed corners, challenging hairpins, and thrilling chicanes. Fisichella highlighted specific areas of the track, such as the first corner and the end of the back straight, as prime spots for overtaking manoeuvres.