Hungaroring and FIA Rush Overnight Track Fixes After F1 Drivers Raise Safety Alarm

The Hungaroring and FIA confirm overnight repairs after drivers reported surface failures during Friday practice at the Hungarian Grand Prix, addressing safety and consistency before Saturday running.

Sections relaid in spring at Turns 1, 2, 12, 13, and 14 began breaking up under F1 loads, prompting widespread concern among teams and officials.

Cracks, bumps, and asphalt separation were most pronounced at Turn 1 and the final complex, forcing drivers off the apex and compromising confidence on entry and braking.

George Russell criticised the workmanship, noting roughly a third of the circuit was resurfaced yet delivered inconsistent grip and excessive lock-ups into Turn 1.

Oscar Piastri described the surface as bizarre, highlighting patched strips and uneven tarmac that unsettled cars and distorted normal racing lines.

The conditions contributed to a scrappy FP2, including Franco Colapinto’s crash at the final corner after sliding on the deteriorating surface.

FIA race director Rui Marques led a Friday evening inspection. Crews targeted two critical zones: one on the racing line, another to the right for potential overtakes.

The track also used infrared heaters to soften asphalt on the start/finish straight before rolling, responding to feedback from Max Verstappen and others.

Pirelli, through chief engineer Simone Berra, warned that rough, opening asphalt increases sliding, raising wear and temperatures, especially if ambient and track conditions climb.

Those risks shape strategy, encouraging conservative out-laps, measured qualifying preparation, and caution when running off-line where loose aggregate remains.

Saturday practice indicated progress. Repairs held under load, with fewer lock-ups and complaints, although grip stayed modest while rubber built through long runs.

Teams refocused on setup trimming rather than damage limitation, but will monitor evolution to protect tyre temperatures across stints and preserve braking stability into Turn 1.

With the surface stabilised, attention shifts to track position at the Hungarian GP, where overtaking is limited, increasing the premium on strategy and track control.

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Daniel Miller

Daniel Miller reports on Formula 1 Grand Prix weekends with race-day analysis, team-radio highlights, and point-standings updates. He explains power-unit upgrades, aerodynamic developments, and driver rivalries in straightforward, SEO-friendly language for a global F1 audience.