Hungaroring targeting further improvements
Hungaroring officials have revealed the development plans which target further changes to the track after a modernization process was launched last year in a bid to keep pace with F1’s latest, ultra-modern tracks.
Zsolt Gyulay, Hungaroring’s chief executive officer was a guest of Hungary’s main national TV channel M1 and revealed the track is following its multi-step development programme it started in 2016.
Last year, the track was completely resurfaced for the first time since it was built back in 1985. Bumps were corrected and new kerbs were installed on a few corners.
With the help of the government, the track will undergo further developments over the years to come. In 2017, the grandstands will be renewed while 2018 will see the modernization of the pit building. Developing of a visitors’ centre is also among the plans.
Hungaroring sets even bigger targets as the technical track intends to lure the MotoGP. The circuit hosted two motorcycle GPs in 1990 and 1992, but the tight, narrow nature of the track, the lack of wide run-off areas made it impossible for the Hungaroring to organize further races.
The track officials now target to be in contact with FIM, the governing body of MotoGP to implement changes which could allow a possible MotoGP race.
"If there is a will from both sides, we need to rebuild the Hungaroring into a track - mainly with changes to corners and run-off areas - which is eligible for motorcycle races,” said Gyulay.
Hungaroring has a unique position among the venues. Even if Hungary became a small country after the World War I, the magnificent capital of Budapest delivers a great attraction to drivers, teams and fans. Hungary also lies in the middle of Europa which makes it easily accessible for many.
Hungaroring extended its contract during last year’s GP which expires in 2016.
"We have a contract until 2026 which gives us safety because of the ongoing changes in the F1 ownership. It could be dangerous for European tracks that traditionally pay less than new tracks or the ones in the Far East."
The Hungaroring is set to host Formula 1, DTM, World Touring Car Championship and Ferrari Challenge next to smaller series in 2017.
