If you are a big fan of Formula One you will already be looking forward to the next Grand Prix in Hungary. Despite Sebastian Vettel having a commanding lead at the top of the drivers’ championship, he is not yet out of sight and there is all to play for. The event takes place in Mogyoród over the weekend of 26 – 28 July, not far from the capital of the country, Budapest.
Hungaroring history
The staging of a Grand Prix in Hungary is a relatively modern development in Formula One history, with the first race taking place in 1986. Bernie Ecclestone originally wanted to develop a Monaco-style circuit based on the city streets of Budapest; however, eventually a custom-made circuit was built in a valley on the outskirts of the city. Nevertheless, the track is known for its tight turns and slightly uneven surface which makes for tricky overtaking maneuvers.
A close fight at Nürburgring
The previous Grand Prix was held in Germany, with Sebastian Vettel extending his lead at the top of the drivers’ championship table by taking first place. It was an interesting battle for the top three positions for most of the race, with Vettel holding off Kimi Raikkonen and Romain Grosjean who took second and third place respectively. Pole position starter, Lewis Hamilton, could only manage fifth place in the end, and it would have been sixth if it weren’t for a last lap overtaking of Jenson Button. Vettel surged into first place by overtaking Hamilton off the starting line and getting to the first corner first.
Results and standings
Sebastian Vettel currently leads the table by 34 points with a total of 157, with the margin growing after victory in Germany. Alonso is in second place on 123 points, with Raikkonen in third on 116. At this point in the season it looks as though the title will end up with one of these three, with Vettel being the strong favourite. Former champion Lewis Hamilton is in fourth place, but given the ongoing mechanical problems he is having with his vehicle, it is unlikely that he will end up challenging for the title. The constructor’s world championship is becoming a foregone conclusion, with Red Bull being way out ahead on 250 points, with Mercedes and Ferrari on 183 and 180 points respectively.
What to expect from the Hungarian Grand Prix
With overtaking being at a premium in Hungary, starting positions earned in qualifying will be vitally important. With the Hungarian Grand Prix being the 10th of 19 races this season, this could be a very telling moment in the championship story. If Sebastian Vettel wins again and stretches out his lead, it will be very difficult for Alonso and Raikkonen to realistically challenge for top spot in the table. Equally, a victory for either of those two will put a little more pressure on Vettel, and could lead to a closing of the gap.
