The Balaton Park circuit in Hungary has officially opened after a four-year build costing €200m. The 4.1km track features six right hand and 10 left hand corners, and has applied for FIA Grade 2 status. There are 48 garages and seating for 10,000 fans, which can be increased to 120,000 through temporary grandstands. The first event to be held at the track will be a two-week driving program hosted by Porsche.
“I was impressed by its character,” said ex-Formula 1 driver Giancarlo Fisichella, who attended the opening. “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.”
Balaton Park hopes to host international events at the all-new circuit in Hungary from 2024. If the track wins a Grade 1 licence in the future, it would then become eligible to host Formula 1, with Chanoch Nissany – father of Formula 2 driver Roy – running day-to-day operations as its president.
Hungary has a surprisingly rich history of motor racing, holding events even during the dark days of Communist rule. The home of Hungarian motorsport is the 4.5km Hungaroring track in Mogyoród, Pest County. Besides Formula One, The Hungaroring has also hosted the DTM and FIA GT Championship races, and a public drag race event takes place there every month.
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