The Hungarian GP is scheduled to take place from 21st July to 23rd July at the picturesque Hungaroring circuit – how many DRS Zones here?
F1 has made several modifications to various circuits on the Formula One Calendar before the start of the 2023 season. Changes in DRS zones were implemented in Bahrain, Jeddah, Baku and Miami but there are no such plans for the Hungaroring circuit, which is scheduled to host the Hungarian GP. Hungaroring will continue to have TWO DRS zones like previous editions and no changes in the track layout have been made either ahead of this weekend’s race.
The Hungaroring circuit, located near Budapest, Hungary, is a well-known venue for the Formula One Hungarian Grand Prix. The track has several designated DRS (Drag Reduction System) zones, which are predetermined sections of the circuit where drivers are allowed to activate their DRS to reduce drag and increase their speed. DRS zones are implemented to enhance overtaking opportunities during the race.
DRS Zone 1: The first DRS zone at the Hungaroring is situated on the main straight. It starts after Turn 14, the final corner of the circuit, and extends towards Turn 1. This long straight provides a significant opportunity for drivers to deploy their DRS and gain an advantage when attempting to overtake opponents.
DRS Zone 2: The second DRS zone is located between Turns 1 and 2. After the drivers navigate the first corner, they can activate their DRS along a shorter straight, allowing them to close the gap or make a pass on the car ahead.
The Hungaroring circuit is widely regarded as a challenging track for drivers to set fast lap times. It features a tight and twisty layout with numerous medium-speed corners, which demand high levels of downforce and precise handling. The circuit has relatively few long straights, limiting opportunities for drivers to make up time through straight-line speed. This technical layout requires drivers to have excellent car control and consistently hit their braking points and apexes accurately.
The Hungaroring is known for being a difficult track to overtake due to its narrow and twisty nature. This means that grid position and qualifying performance are crucial, as it can be challenging to make up positions during the race. Consequently, drivers often push harder during qualifying to secure a good starting position, resulting in faster lap times being registered during those sessions. The circuit takes time to rubber in and evolve throughout the race weekend, making it trickier for drivers to extract maximum performance in the early stages.
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