After every Grand Prix, we present the RaceReport, offering you an exclusive and playful digital recap of the race weekend. Reporters Gerard Bos and André Venema bring you up to speed from Hungary!
A Classic and Mainstay on a Mickey Mouse Circuit
The announcement that Hungary would host a Grand Prix in 1986 was world news. Formula 1, the symbol of Western capitalism, performing behind the communist Iron Curtain caused quite a stir. But then-commercial rights holder Bernie Ecclestone proved to have a visionary outlook.
Over two hundred thousand people attended the inaugural Hungarian GP on the Hungaroring, a twisty and short circuit twenty kilometers outside Budapest, also known as a Mickey Mouse track. Particularly from surrounding Eastern Bloc countries and Finland, there was a massive influx to Hungary.
Over the past four decades, the event has grown into a classic: even at the latest edition, the influx of fans is large. And with a new pit building, an impressive new main grandstand (both built in just twelve months), and a guaranteed contract until 2032, the Hungarian GP is also a mainstay on the calendar.
Bernie Ecclestone probably could not have foreseen this when he was allowed to set up the high-speed circus tents behind the Iron Curtain. In a time when Formula 1 is incredibly popular and countries are vying to host the Formula 1, the Hungaroring – despite its very limited overtaking opportunities – is not up for debate. The qualification there on Saturday (just like in Monaco) is decisive, the race without a rain shower is rarely a spectacle. The attractive admission prices, the dynamism and nightlife of Budapest, and the warm weather continue to have a particularly strong appeal to fans.
And not just from Eastern Europe anymore.
HIGHLIGHTS IN HUNGARY
The Quote from Max Verstappen
“I didn’t expect this weekend in Hungary to be our best weekend. But I also didn’t expect it to be this tough. We really tried everything, but nothing works. Still, I’m going into the summer break just fine. I’m on vacation too, right? Whether I can win a race after the summer if it continues like this? I don’t think so at the moment, no. But we will certainly keep trying, hoping for a highlight such as winning the sprint race last week in Belgium.”
Top & Flop
Who performed the best and who fell short during the race weekend in Hungary? Our top and flop from Budapest!
Top Performer: Gabriel Bortoleto
It’s a tough choice, as there were many drivers who performed exceptionally well in Hungary this weekend. One could argue for Fernando Alonso, who finished fifth, demonstrating that he is far from being past his prime as long as the car is up to par. The Aston Martin certainly was this weekend, with Lance Stroll also performing well, finishing in seventh place. However, the accolades go to Gabriel Bortoleto. He achieved something unique: the rookie has never finished as high as he did this season. His sixth place symbolizes the growth the young Brazilian is experiencing this season. It has been said before: keep an eye on this man, F1 fans are going to enjoy his performances. In Hungary, he once again proved why – both in the qualification and in the race, Bortoleto was as flawless as he was superb.
Underperformer: Ferrari
Yes, things can go wrong sometimes. But what is going on with the Italian squad, where people seem unable to control their emotions? First, there was the disheartening qualification of Lewis Hamilton, who subsequently threw himself under the bus by stating that he feels worthless, that the poor qualification was his fault, and that the team would be better off with a different driver. The following day, Charles Leclerc publicly (via the on-board radio and not for the first time) lashed out at the team during the race when the Monegasque realized that he would not be able to convert his much-celebrated pole position into a win. It turned out there was a problem with the car, and Leclerc regretted his words afterwards. But both on Saturday and Sunday, the drivers ensured that, apart from the impressive pole, the conversation at Ferrari was about anything but sporting success.
BEHIND THE SCENES
A glimpse behind the scenes at the Hungarian Grand Prix!
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Results of the 2025 Hungarian Grand Prix
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Additional Observations at the Hungaroring
WIN: ONE OF THESE TWO POSTERS!
Three Questions for… Andrea Stella
As the team boss of McLaren, Andrea Stella has two drivers who could become champions this year. And that in the fastest car on the field. This requires significant management skills.
The title fight is now between your two drivers after the summer. What will make the difference in the final phase of this season?
“Firstly, I don’t think it’s certain yet that it’s only going to be between Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri. Mathematically, others still have a chance. So, I’ll only believe in a duel when it’s mathematically confirmed. Regardless, this season is going to be exciting and all we can do is ensure that we provide Lando and Oscar with the fastest possible car. Aspects such as reliability, preventing issues, and how pit stops are handled, are all within our control as a team. Then it’s up to the drivers to perform their tasks to the best of their abilities. The differences in quality, the way they drive; they are minimal or non-existent. Who is the most consistent will also play a part.”
And the million-dollar question: do you expect any trouble and drama when it comes down to the last two or three races in the fight for the title?
“The pressure and tension will undoubtedly increase as the number of races decreases. As a team boss, I see two drivers who are battling for the championship in a very solid and good manner. We have found a way with the drivers to let them race against each other, and it’s going well. I expect it to stay that way, even as it gets more exciting towards the end of the season.”
McLaren’s dominance is undeniable. To what extent has that surprised you this year?
“Yes, I am surprised by how competitive we are. We decided to aggressively innovate with the MCL39 this season, to overcome the unpredictability of last season. And for this year, we really didn’t think we could be good enough. But through multiple upgrades this season – often smaller, but collectively significant improvements – we have clearly become more competitive. That’s paying off.”
Formula 1 Podcast: ‘McLaren Charges Ahead, Red Bull Wobbles’
Together with reporter Gerard Bos, we look back at the Hungarian Grand Prix from the Hungaroring. We discuss McLaren’s dominant victory, Charles Leclerc‘s disappointment, and Red Bull’s disastrous weekend. Is Max Verstappen right in saying he won’t win any more races this season?
Next Grand Prix: The Netherlands
Circuit Zandvoort
“After a brief summer break, Formula 1 is gearing up for one of the absolute highlights of the F1 season: the Dutch Grand Prix. At the Zandvoort circuit, Max Verstappen and the rest of the field will once again be in action during a weekend full of orange madness and spectacle in the dunes. Wondering when you should be ready? Here is the full schedule for the Dutch GP 2025.
Schedule for the Dutch GP 2025
Friday, August 29
- First free practice: 10:30 – 11:30 UTC
- Second free practice: 14:00 – 15:00 UTC
Saturday, August 30
- Third free practice: 09:30 – 10:30 UTC
- Qualification: 13:00 – 14:00 UTC
Sunday, August 31
Race: 13:00 UTC
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