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Zsolt Gyulay: Hungaroring is not just a racetrack, but one of our country’s best-known gateways to the world

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When the name “Hungaroring” comes up, most people think of the Formula 1 Hungarian Grand Prix. However, the track in Mogyoród is now much more than just a race venue that fills up once a year. Thanks to developments in recent years, programs, guided tours, and driver training courses are available year-round, and, last but not least, it is also open to visitors as an event venue.
When the name “Hungaroring” comes up, most people think of the Formula 1 Hungarian Grand Prix. However, the track in Mogyoród is now much more than just a race venue that fills up once a year. Thanks to developments in recent years, programs, guided tours, and driver training courses are available year-round, and, last but not least, it is also open to visitors as an event venue.

One of the most significant transformations in the Hungaroring’s forty-year history

“Hungaroring, which turns forty this year, has undergone the greatest transformation in its history over the past three years. The main building and grandstand have been renovated, making the racetrack one of the most modern venues in the Formula 1 World Championship series,” says Zsolt Gyulay, Chairman and CEO of Hungaroring Sport Zrt.

Thanks to the renovated main building, Hungaroring can now be booked as a venue for corporate events, team-building activities, conferences, and even weddings. And for those who’d rather spend time on the track, there are several options to choose from. On open days, you can drive your own car onto the racetrack, or participate in guided driving experiences and driving technique training sessions.

“About 10,000 people hone their skills in our driving technique training sessions each year. We always say: if we manage to save even one life, it was worth it”

– says Zsolt Gyulay.

Furthermore, those interested can find a variety of programs throughout the year at the Hungaroring Driving Center and the Kart Center. The goal is for families and casual visitors, in addition to motorsport fans, to find experiences that appeal to them. Zsolt Gyulay adds that in 2025, the Hungarian Grand Prix won the award for “Fan Experience of the Year” – perhaps this also shows just how important the fans are to the team.

Closer to the world of motorsports

Many people only follow the races on television, but the on-site experience offers a completely different perspective.

“The quickest way to fall in love with motorsports is to experience it up close. You have to come out here, breathe in the smell of gasoline, and get a glimpse behind the scenes,” says Zsolt Gyulay, adding that the sport’s popularity is also boosted when we learn about the drivers’ stories, successes, and challenges. Following the career of a particular driver or team often leads many to become regular fans.

International attention on the improvements

The renovations, completed in less than a year, were also well-received by Formula 1 stakeholders – several drivers said the modernization was long overdue. Perhaps the most memorable comment came from Stefano Domenicali, Formula 1’s Chairman and CEO:

When he first saw the main building, he clapped his hands and simply said, “Mamma mia!”

He then held up the Hungarian team’s work as an example to other promoters.

Open all year round

One of the most important goals of the developments is for Hungaroring to be more than just a venue for a race weekend; it is intended to play an active role in Hungary’s event and adventure tourism industry throughout the year.

“The racetrack will remain the realm of speed, but thanks to continuous renewal, it will become a multifunctional event center operating 365 days a year,” emphasizes Zsolt Gyulay. As he says, if you haven’t been to Hungaroring yet, it’s worth discovering the venue in person at least once. We rarely get a glimpse behind the scenes of a Formula 1 track, but here, numerous programs are available even outside of race weekends.

Hungaroring is not just a racetrack, but one of Hungary’s best-known gateways to the world – offering a world-class experience year after year

– concludes the chairman and CEO.