Hungarian GP

• Track features

  There’s a karting track located within metres of the Hungaroring, and it's often joked that it’s hard to tell the difference between the two, which isn’t entirely untrue. Jammed full of slow corners and with a lack of straights, the circuit does have the feel of a karting track.

  It also feels somewhat similar to Monaco, but without the walls. High downforce and good grip are important for navigating the narrow winding turns in Hungary, and teams will generally prioritise Qualifying pace over race pace due to the lack of overtaking opportunities.

  But that’s not to say it isn’t entertaining - far from it. There’s time to be gained from pushing the limits, but mistakes are punished, which makes for a scintillating watch. The circuit isn’t entirely devoid of overtaking opportunities either - Turns 10-12, in particular, are well worth your time as cars set themselves up for a move ahead of two tight turns and the main straight.

  Unsurprisingly, Qualifying is a must-watch, as the circuit’s tight and technical nature really gets the best out of a Formula 1 car. The Hungaroring is also known to get a little dusty, which can result in a dramatic end to the session as the tarmac cleans up and becomes quicker.

• What's it like in Budapest?

  Budapest is among Europe’s most beautiful and historic cities, and the Hungaroring is located just 30 minutes away from the capital, making it a popular choice for a city-break among race fans.

  Whilst there, explore the city’s many historical highlights, including the Buda Castle, St. Stephen’s Basilica and traditional markets, and try its incredible food. You’ll struggle to find goulash better than in Budapest. Their creamy chicken paprikash and meat-filled pancakes are well worth sampling as well.

  As with many of the European countries we visit, café culture is very much a part of everyday life in Hungary. We’d suggest finding one on the Danube River, picking up a coffee and taking on a Rubik’s cube, which was invented in Hungary in 1974 by Ernõ Rubik.

• F1 icebreaker

  Stuck for conversation with your F1-loving friends? Spark up a discussion with our F1 icebreaker…

  Lewis Hamilton’s 2009 Hungarian Grand Prix victory for McLaren was the first hybrid engine victory in F1. 15 years later, Pato O’Ward’s win in Mid-Ohio made Arrow McLaren the first team to win in IndyCar’s hybrid engine era.