It was announced last week that Hungaroring has signed an extension to its deal to host the Hungarian Grand Prix through to 2026.
The circuit’s deal was extended to 2021 three years ago but work has continued to resurface the track, while further governments are being allocated from next year for redevelopment of facilities. The circuit has not missed a year since joining the calendar in 1986 and has become a popular fixture in that time, with memorable wins for Daniel Ricciardo and Sebastian Vettel in the last two seasons.
In an interview with the media last week, Bernie Ecclestone said the following about the extension as follows:-
‘Yep, we’ve a new deal. They’re good supporters, they do a good job, good for the country, good for us, and I’m very, very happy we’re always in Hungary, and we’re staying there.’
The Budapest circuit has made a profit for the last five years and in his own interview with the media last week, Hungary’s national development minister, Miklos Sesztak says it made sense to keep improving the facilities to secure a long-term F1 future. Seztak stated the following-
‘Without giving out secrets regarding the details of our contract, I can tell you we’ll be able to organise and run our F1 race for another five-year period under very favourable terms,” Sesztak is quoted as saying. “However, despite the fact that after the grand prix everybody seems to be satisfied, saying they’ve had a great time here, we know further improvements are needed.
‘The resurfacing work that has just finished was the first step in this direction. I can reveal the 2017 [governmental] budget submits substantial resources earmarked for the development of the circuit. This is because every year the race is one of the most important sporting events for our country, so the government of Hungary is committed to a good quality track such as the Hungaroring.’
Jones on F1 