New FIA Grade 1-spec circuit launched in Hungary
A new FIA Grade 1-specification circuit named Balaton Park has been completed and launched in Hungary, following investment of over €200million ($217m).
The circuit has taken four years to build and is located just over 50 miles from Budapest, near Lake Balaton – a major holiday destination in the country. Describing it as the “highest FIA standard race track to be built in Central Europe for over 15 years”, the circuit’s management held a press event to launch the track, with former Formula 1 driver Giancarlo Fisichella testing out the 4.115km (2.557-mile) circuit.
“Driving Balaton Park Circuit for the first time, I was impressed by its character,” Fisichella said. “The track really has it all – a thrilling blend of high-speed corners, challenging hairpins and cool chicanes. It’s a track that flows nicely, giving you a great racing feeling. The first corner and the end of the back straight are prime spots for overtakes. All in all, Balaton Park is a treat to drive.”
With permanent seating for 10,000 spectators but the provision for six-figure attendances through temporary grandstands, Balaton Park has been designed to FIA Grade 1 standards as well as addressing FIM regulations for both top-level car and motorbike racing. However, at this stage only a Grade 2 license has been applied for.
Former F1 test driver Chanoch Nissany – who took part in one practice session for Minardi in 2005 and is the father of current F2 racer Roy Nissany – is the circuit’s president, with the second phase of the project set to include a hotel being completed on-site as well as the construction of a car museum.
The Hungaroring on the eastern edge of Budapest is the current host venue of the Hungarian Grand Prix, and has a contract with Formula 1 until 2027.
Chris Medland
While studying Sports Journalism at the University of Central Lancashire, Chris managed to talk his way into working at the British Grand Prix in 2008 and was retained for three years before joining ESPN F1 as Assistant Editor. After three further years at ESPN, a spell as F1 Editor at Crash Media Group was followed by the major task of launching F1i.com’s English-language website and running it as Editor. Present at every race since the start of 2014, he has continued building his freelance portfolio, working with international titles. As well as writing for RACER, his broadcast work includes television appearances on F1 TV and as a presenter and reporter on North America's live radio coverage on SiriusXM.
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