FIA intervenes in Hungarian Grand Prix after drivers slam track surface quality
Track conditions at the Hungarian Grand Prix have come under intense scrutiny, with an urgent FIA inspection launched late on Friday following complaints from drivers at the newly resurfaced Hungaroring. As the 11th round of the 2026 Formula 1 season began, the spotlight fell squarely on the circuit, with many drivers expressing concerns over grip issues and unstable bumps – particularly on the notoriously tricky final and first corners.
The Hungaroring, long celebrated by drivers for its technical challenge and karting-style rhythm, was mired in controversy after the first two Friday practice sessions. Despite being a venue where Lewis Hamilton famously claimed eight wins, and where Oscar Piastri, Jenson Button, Esteban Ocon and George Russell have all marked career milestones, this year’s revival project has left competitors disappointed and concerned.
It was George Russell, the circuit’s former pole-sitter, who led the charge in condemning the track’s condition. After the initial practice, Russell did not hold back in his assessment. Speaking to the media, the British driver declared: “It’s a bit of a shame, because Budapest is one of the most enjoyable circuits to drive. They’ve repaved a third of the track and unfortunately they’ve done a really bad job. It’s really bumpy. You saw a lot of people locking up the track at turn one, and the track was breaking at the last corner. People are driving in the middle of the corner and not really at the top. Going, which is a little weird.”
Concerns were expressed during the official drivers’ briefing on Friday night, where the issues of losing grip and new surface bumps were raised directly with FIA officials. The seriousness of the situation prompted immediate action: FIA Race Director Rui Marques and senior FIA officials conducted a comprehensive inspection of the circuit under floodlights, while event organizers looked to suppress problematic bumps and optimize the racing line.
With memories of last month’s Monaco Grand Prix still fresh – where a disintegrating track surface forced red flags – there is heightened sensitivity within the paddock towards any threat of a repeat scenario. The FIA has confirmed that it will maintain vigilant monitoring of the Hungaroring surface throughout the weekend, seeking to ensure that the integrity of racing is not compromised.
The swift response from officials and organizers underlines the seriousness of the drivers’ concerns and the governing body’s determination to preserve both safety and spectacle at one of F1’s most beloved venues.
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