Hungary's Hungaroring signs extension, hoping to increase visitor numbers again this year

The Hungaroring motor-racing circuit has signed an extension agreement to host the Hungarian Grand Prix until 2026. The FIA Grade 1 licensed venue is located in Mogyoród, near Budapest, and is accessible by public transport.

Bernie Ecclestone confirmed the ongoing relationship between Formula One and the Hungaroring: "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 Hungarian Grand Prix has been a popular fixture on the international calendar since 1986, and has proved a reliable partner for fans and F1 organisers, having never missed a year since its inception. The Hungaroring’s challenging circuit (compared by some to the style of the Circuit de Monaco) has become a favourite of diehard Formula One fans in the region. According to government sources, it is the third most visited place in Hungary.

The Hungarian Grand Prix celebrates its 30th anniversary this year. Last year’s event saw visitor numbers up by 10%.

The success of the Hungarian Grand Prix and similar events are of great interest to the Budapest 2024 Bid Committee, who are applying to host the Olympic Games after Tokyo.

‘We’re delighted to hear the news. It’s great for Budapest and Hungarian sport,’ said Attila Mizsér, Director of Sports and Venues for the Budapest Bid Committee. ‘This event has a track record of success in delivering excellent sport and excellent spectator experiences. And there’s experience that we can learn from - the Hungaroring was completed on time and to budget, in fact in just eight months - less time than any other Formula One circuit. We will capitalise on opportunities to work together to strengthen the Hungarian sporting offer, as well as skills and expertise in the sector.’

Resurfacing work at the Hungaroring has just been completed to keep the track at a Grade 1 standard, and further upgrades are planned. MTI, the Hungarian news agency, has reported that ticket sales contribute to as much as 90% of the Hungaroringʼs revenue and the circuit has made a profit for the last five years running. The track is in use for approximately 200 days a year with events such as the World Touring Car Championship, which was held last weekend and attracted around 50,000 visitors. Public drag race events also take place every month.

‘Hungary is an outstanding partner in sport events,’ said Mizsér. ‘Formula One is a great example of the continuing support we are seeing from the international sport community. We are looking forward to all the opportunities we have coming up, including the ITU Triathlon World Cup, the European Table Tennis Championships, the European Youth Olympic Festival and the FINA World Championships.’

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