Oscar Piastri returns to the Hungaroring this weekend—the scene of his first Formula One win. The 24-year-old Australian leads the title race with six wins from 13 races this season. He currently holds a 16-point lead over McLaren teammate Lando Norris.
“I’m looking forward to going back to where I had my first win,” said Piastri. “It’s a great city and a cool track and a fun weekend so it will be nice, but once we are in the cars and out on track all that will be forgotten.”
Last year, Piastri’s win came with some help from McLaren. After taking the lead from Norris at the start, he dropped behind during the pit stops. McLaren then asked Norris to let Piastri pass, handing him his first win. That decision left Norris feeling frustrated.
This time, Norris is determined to win on his own terms. He finished second in Belgium after Piastri overtook him during a rolling start. The race was rain-affected, but Piastri stayed composed. Norris, by contrast, has struggled with consistency.
McLaren has been dominant this season. The team has claimed 10 wins and now targets its 200th Formula One victory before the summer break. With both drivers pushing hard, another intra-team clash could be on the horizon.
Technical Test at the Hungaroring
The Hungarian Grand Prix presents a very different challenge than Spa-Francorchamps. Unlike the fast and wet Belgian track, the Hungaroring is tight and twisting. It’s often called “Monaco without the barriers.”
Sunny conditions are expected this weekend. However, there is a chance of thunderstorms that could shake up the grid. The technical nature of the track means that even small errors can have a big impact.
A Venue Steeped in History
The Hungarian GP became part of the F1 calendar in 1986. It was the first race held behind the Iron Curtain. But Hungary’s Grand Prix history goes back even further—to 1936 in Budapest’s Nepliget park.
Lewis Hamilton, now with Ferrari, has a stellar record at this track. He has won eight times and taken nine poles. After a disappointing race in Belgium, Hamilton is desperate for a podium finish.
He called the Belgian GP “one to forget.“ This weekend could give him a chance to earn his first Ferrari podium and ease pressure on the team.
Track of Surprises and Milestones
The Hungaroring is known for surprise winners. In 2003, Fernando Alonso took his first F1 win here. He was just 22 years old and later became the youngest world champion at the time. Alonso returns this weekend for his record 22nd Hungarian Grand Prix.
Max Verstappen will also hit a milestone. The Dutchman is set to start his 200th race for Red Bull. He won in Hungary in both 2022 and 2023. But this year, things are different. Red Bull no longer looks unbeatable. With Laurent Mekies now leading the team after Christian Horner’s exit, the pressure is on.
Piastri vs Norris: Who Takes Budapest?
Piastri has the momentum. He’s calm, consistent, and rarely makes mistakes. Norris, though quick, has struggled under pressure. With McLaren cars in top form, a thrilling battle between teammates is expected.
Will Piastri extend his lead? Or will Norris finally strike back at a circuit famous for maiden wins and dramatic moments?
All eyes turn to Budapest this weekend for what promises to be a crucial chapter in the 2025 Formula One season.
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