Hungaroring Celebrates 40 Years with Corner Names Honouring F1 Legends
To mark 40 years of the Hungarian Grand Prix, the Hungaroring has officially named its corners after F1 legends like Lewis Hamilton and Nigel Mansell. This initiative involved fan input and expert panel review, resulting in a lasting tribute to motorsport history.
The Hungaroring, home to the Hungarian Grand Prix, is celebrating its 40th anniversary by naming its corners after some of the sport's most iconic figures. Lewis Hamilton is among the honorees, securing his place in track history alongside legends like Nigel Mansell and Jean Alesi.
Fans had their say in this tribute, participating in a vote to suggest corner names. These were then vetted by a panel of experts, including motorsport professionals and media representatives who have been involved with the circuit since its first race in 1986.
The newly named corners include:
- **Turn 1 – Piquet**: Honoring Nelson Piquet, who won the first two races held at the track and famously overtook Ayrton Senna in 1986. - **Turn 2 – Hamilton**: A nod to Lewis Hamilton's exceptional record at the Hungaroring, with eight victories and nine pole positions to his name. - **Turn 3 – Spring**: Named for the Valley of the Three Springs, where the track is located. - **Turn 4 – Mansell**: Celebrating Nigel Mansell, who clinched the World Championship here in 1992 and had several memorable races. - **Turn 5 – Mogyorod**: Reflects the track's location near the village of Mogyorod. - **Turns 6 & 7 – Driving Center**: Named after Hungary's first driver training facility, opened in 1998. - **Turns 8 & 9 – Buda/Pest**: Recognizing the connection to Budapest, a favorite among the F1 community. - **Turn 10 – Danube**: Named for the famous river flowing through Budapest. - **Turn 11 – Alesi**: Officially christened after Jean Alesi, who had a notable incident here in 1995. - **Turn 12 – Schumacher**: In tribute to Michael Schumacher, who secured four wins and a championship at the Hungaroring. - **Turn 13 – Senna**: Named for Ayrton Senna, the first polesitter at the track's inaugural race. - **Turn 14 – Szisz**: Honoring Ferenc Szisz, a Hungarian-born engineer who won the first Grand Prix in 1906.
As part of the celebrations, Hamilton, Mansell, and Alesi have also left their handprints in concrete, adding a physical mark of their achievements to the circuit's history. This gesture ensures that their contributions and moments of brilliance are remembered by fans and future racers alike.