Formula 1 Hungarian Grand Prix Preview

The final Grand Prix before Formula 1’s traditional summer break takes place at the Hungaroring this weekend.

The 4.38km-long track is replete with one straight which takes drivers out of the final Turn 14 past the pitlane and down into a heavy braking zone of Turn 1. The second sector is tight and twisty and a high downforce set-up is a prerequisite for the nature of the track.

McLaren driver Daniel Ricciardo describes the Hungaroring as: “Monaco without walls.” That’s a great description of medium and slow-speed straights and a series of twisty corners the drivers will tackle. The key to a good lap time is being consistent through the several slower corners and then getting onto the power as soon as possible.

Ferrari’s superiority at low downforce circuits this season sees them installed as favourites for the Budapest race. Charles Leclerc will rue a costly error while leading last weekend’s French GP. The Monegasque driver will need to keep a cool head and make sure he brings the F1-75 home in one piece if he wants to dent the 63-point lead Max Verstappen has over him.

The Mercedes duo of Lewis Hamilton and George Russell will look to score another double-podium finish. Red Bull simply won’t lay down and not challenge for the race win despite Verstappen’s comments this week of an “easy” 1-2 for Ferrari. There’ll be strategy game plans being discussed by all teams, so expect lots of battles in midfield to maximise scoring points.

Leclerc, Sainz, Hamilton

Fastest lap: Sainz

Pole position: Leclerc

First to retire: Nicholas Latifi

Most Team Points: Ferrari

Both Cars Qualify for Q3 Shootout:

Free Practice 1/2/3 Winning Car: Leclerc/ Ferrari

Safety Car: Yes

Top 6: Alonso

Top 10: Ocon, Bottas, Schumacher