During last year's Hungarian Grand Prix, the Hungaroring invited Formula 1 fans to take part in a unique initiative by voting on names for the circuit's iconic corners. As the Hungaroring celebrates its 40th anniversary, a panel of experts reviewed the thousands of suggestions and selected the final names.
The panel included motorsport professionals who have worked at the circuit since the inaugural Hungarian Grand Prix in 1986, alongside leading representatives of the specialist motorsport media.
As part of the anniversary celebrations, three Formula 1 legends – Nigel Mansell, Lewis Hamilton and Jean Alesi – have also left their handprints, which will be cast in concrete and permanently installed in the run-off area of the circuit.
The expert panel selected the following names based on the fans' suggestions:
Turn 1 – Piquet
Named after Nelson Piquet, winner of the first two Hungarian Grands Prix. The corner also commemorates one of Formula 1's most iconic overtaking manoeuvres: Piquet's spectacular powerslide pass around the outside of Ayrton Senna during the inaugural race in 1986.
Turn 2 – Hamilton
Lewis Hamilton is the Hungaroring's most successful driver, with eight victories and nine pole positions (to date). Hamilton previously remarked in an interview that if a corner were ever named after him, Turn 2 would be his choice. When news of the project reached the paddock, he said during Thursday's media day that it was a great honour to know his name would become a permanent part of the Hungaroring. Lewis Hamilton also left his handprint, securing his place in the Hungaroring's legacy.
Turn 3 – Spring
The Hungaroring is located in the Valley of the Three Springs, making "Spring" a natural choice for Turn 3.
Turn 4 – Mansell
Few corners are more closely associated with Nigel Mansell. In 1987 he appeared destined for victory before his right rear wheel nut came loose with only five laps remaining, forcing his retirement. Two years later, he produced one of Formula 1's greatest drives, charging from 12th on the grid to victory, including his famous pass on Ayrton Senna while lapping another car. In 1992, the Hungaroring also became the venue where Mansell secured his World Championship.
Turn 5 – Mogyoród
Although many associate the Hungaroring with Budapest, the circuit is actually located within the municipality of Mogyoród, and Turn 5 is the closest corner to the village.
Turns 6&7 – Driving Center
Named after the Hungaroring Driving Center, Hungary's first driver training facility, opened in 1998. While the Hungaroring is synonymous with speed, promoting road safety has always been an equally important part of its mission.
Turns 8&9 – Buda / Pest
This corner complex celebrates the close connection between the Hungaroring and Budapest—one of the favourite destinations for Formula 1 teams, drivers and fans thanks to its vibrant atmosphere, rich history and stunning architecture.
Turn 10 – Danube
Named after Hungary's most iconic river. The Danube winds through the country with curves that any circuit designer could admire.
Turn 11 – Alesi
As you may know, since Jean's memorable performance at the 1995 Hungarian Grand Prix, Turn 11 has affectionately been known as "Alesi" by Hungarian fans, media and the local motorsport community. The Hungaroring has now decided to make this name official, making it a truly special and emotional moment for Jean.
Turn 12 – Schumacher
Michael Schumacher celebrated four Hungarian Grand Prix victories at the Hungaroring, where Ferrari fans regularly turned the grandstands into a sea of red. In 2001 he secured his fourth Drivers' World Championship at this circuit and also clinched the Constructors' title for Ferrari.
Turn 13 – Senna
Ayrton Senna started the inaugural Hungarian Grand Prix from pole position in 1986. Although he finished second after Piquet's unforgettable overtake, Senna went on to become one of the circuit's greatest champions, winning in 1988, 1991 and 1992.
Turn 14 – Szisz
The final corner honours Ferenc Szisz, the Hungarian-born engineer and head of Renault’s testing department who won the very first Grand Prix in history, held in France on 26–27 June 1906. His legacy is also commemorated by a statue in the Hungaroring Statue Park.
