About Balaton Park
Balaton Park Circuit stands as Hungary's newest motorsport venue, located near Balatonfőkajár, approximately 85 km southwest of Budapest. The circuit opened in May 2023 after private investors, led by former race driver Chanoch Nissany, completed construction. This modern facility sits close to Lake Balaton, a popular tourist destination in Hungary, and serves as a complement to the country's established Hungaroring circuit.
Track Design and Specifications
The 4.115 km track runs in an anti-clockwise direction and features 16 turns - 10 left and 6 right. The circuit width varies between 12-15 meters throughout its layout. Drivers can reach high speeds on the 1500-meter main straight, the longest on the track. Hungarian engineer Ferenc Gulácsi designed the circuit with three primary goals: safety, driver challenge, and sustainability. The facility uses Tecpro barriers instead of traditional tire walls for improved safety standards.
Technical Classification and Facilities
Balaton Park Circuit meets FIA Grade 1 design standards but initially sought Grade 2 homologation. The venue features advanced "MyLaps" technology, including GPS tracking, LED panels, and precise timing systems. The circuit houses 48 pit garages and permanent seating for 10,000 spectators, with space for temporary grandstands that can accommodate up to 120,000 fans. A 145-room four-star hotel overlooking the track remains under construction. The venue also includes VIP areas, a media center, a medical facility, and two support paddock areas.
Racing History and Future Events
The circuit hosted its first major event in June 2023, celebrating Porsche's 75th anniversary with a driving program and "Festival of Dreams" gathering. In October 2023, the track held the final round of the ACCR Czech Formula 4 series. Future plans include hosting the World Superbike Championship in 2024, serving as a MotoGP reserve venue in 2024, and potentially hosting the Hungarian Motorcycle Grand Prix in 2025. Additional scheduled events include TCR Eastern Europe and Ferrari Challenge Europe competitions.
Driver Perspectives and Regional Significance
Former Formula 1 driver Giancarlo Fisichella praised the circuit after testing it: "The track really has it all – a thrilling blend of high-speed corners, challenging hairpins and cool chicanes." He identified the first corner and the end of the back straight as prime overtaking opportunities. Racing experts consider Balaton Park the highest standard racing circuit built in Central Europe in over 15 years. Unlike a previous failed attempt called Balatonring, this facility has successfully established itself as Hungary's second permanent international racing venue.
While the Hungaroring maintains its long-term Formula 1 contract, Balaton Park focuses on other international racing series. The circuit's modern facilities, technical layout, and beautiful location near Lake Balaton position it as an important new addition to European motorsport.
