The Hungarian Grand Prix is shaping up to be a chaotic affair, with Formula 1 drivers expressing deep concerns over the track's surface. The resurfacing of a third of the track has been a contentious issue, with drivers criticizing the quality of the asphalt and the presence of significant bumps, particularly at Turn 1 and Turn 13.
George Russell's comments on Friday set the tone for the weekend, calling the resurfacing job 'really bad'. The drivers' briefing that evening further highlighted the issues, leading to overnight work to smooth out some of the bumps. However, the efforts seem to have fallen short, as evidenced by Lando Norris' description of the track as a 'lottery' in certain corners.
Carlos Sainz, driving for Williams, echoed these sentiments, noting the stark difference between the current resurfacing and the one done in 2016, which he praised for its high grip and quality. Sainz's critique was particularly pointed, suggesting that the circuit needs to re-evaluate the resurfacing process and the materials used.
The Turn 1 bump, in particular, has become a major concern. This bump, resulting from an uneven transition between the old and new surface, has been a focal point of criticism. Haas driver Ollie Bearman described the resurfacing as 'really, really bad', advocating for a return to the previous surface to avoid the chaos that could ensue on the first lap.
The track's overall condition, with breaking up and poor grip, has added to the drivers' woes. Gabriel Bortoleto, driving for Audi, called the track 'very bad', while Valtteri Bottas noted the lack of improvement from the last resurfacing, which occurred a decade ago. The recurring issues with the track's surface and the circuit's inability to maintain a consistent quality raise questions about the standards of Formula 1 circuit management.
As the race weekend unfolds, the drivers' concerns are likely to influence their performance and strategy. The track's unpredictable nature, with its bumps and varying grip levels, could lead to exciting and chaotic racing, but also raises the risk of accidents and mechanical issues. The Hungarian Grand Prix, it seems, will be a test of not just the drivers' skills but also the circuit's ability to provide a safe and fair racing environment.
