Updated Jul 19, 2023 6:41 pm
Throughout its history, the Hungaroring has been the stage for numerous enthralling races, characterized by bold eleventh-hour manoeuvres, exhilarating battles side by side, and strategic masterstrokes. As Formula 1 gears up for the penultimate round before the summer break, let us embark on a nostalgic journey down memory lane, reminiscing about the captivating moments this circuit has delivered
- A Heartfelt Tribute
Before the race commenced, a poignant moment unfolded in memory of the late Jules Bianchi. With images captured from Twitter/F1, the drivers, along with Bianchi’s family, gathered at the front of the grid, forming a circle. It was a beautiful and deeply emotional tribute, underscoring the lasting impact of the Frenchman on the world of Formula 1.
- Start-line Drama
The race began with a burst of adrenaline as Sebastian Vettel and Kimi Raikkonen showcased spectacular starts, outpacing the Mercedes drivers. Meanwhile, a gripping moment occurred behind them, where Daniel Ricciardo briefly caught some air after a collision with Valtteri Bottas. Remarkably, Ricciardo managed to continue racing without sustaining significant damage.
- Hamiltons Turf Troubles
Lewis Hamilton, initially running in fourth position, encountered a challenging moment in the opening corners. Approaching the sector two chicanes, he, unfortunately, locked up, causing his car to clip the grass and cut the corner. A sprinkle of grass and gravel followed, and he re-entered the track in 10th place, losing ground in the process.
- Maldonado and Perez’s Collision
Pastor Maldonado made a return to his infamous driving style, leading to a tense situation with Sergio Perez. Attempting a daring manoeuvre around the outside at Turn 1, Perez found himself with no room to manoeuvre on the exit, leading to an unavoidable collision. Maldonado’s actions resulted in three penalties, further fueling the drama.
- Intense Racing Spectacle
Labelled as one of the most thrilling races in recent memory, the Hungarian Grand Prix offered viewers an adrenaline-pumping experience. Alongside the occasional contact, collisions, and penalties, fans witnessed thrilling overtakes from Hamilton, Ricciardo, and Fernando Alonso as they battled for positions, making the race truly unforgettable.
- Hulkenberg’s Front Wing Woes
Nico Hulkenberg faced a terrifying moment at the Hungaroring, as the harsh kerbs took their toll on his front wing. Unfortunately, at a critical juncture on the run to Turn 1, the front wing failed, sending him straight into the wall. Fortunately, Hulkenberg emerged unharmed from the incident.
- Costly Contact After Safety Car
Following the deployment of the Safety Car to clear the debris from Hulkenberg’s crash, the race resumed with high tensions. Daniel Ricciardo’s attempt to overtake Hamilton resulted in a collision, forcing the Mercedes driver to pit for a new front wing and receive a drive-through penalty, adding to his woes.
- Raikkonen’s Disheartening Engine Failure
Throughout most of the race, Kimi Raikkonen displayed an impressive performance, holding on to the second position. Unfortunately, just before Hulkenberg’s crash, Raikkonen reported an unsettling “odd sound” from the engine. His MGU-K failed, causing him to lose ground after the restart, and eventually leading to his retirement from the race.
- The Thrilling Finish
As the checkered flag loomed on the horizon, the battle at the front intensified. Sebastian Vettel led the pack, closely followed by Rosberg, Ricciardo, and Kvyat, all separated by mere seconds. However, drama ensued when Ricciardo’s attempt to pass Rosberg resulted in contact, puncturing Rosberg’s tire and forcing both drivers to pit for repairs, adding a wild twist to the race’s climax.
- Vettel’s Victorious Moment
Maintaining unwavering focus, Sebastian Vettel flawlessly secured his second victory of the 2015 season. Amidst challenges faced by others, Vettel dominated the race, crossing the finish line ahead of Kvyat, who earned a well-deserved podium finish despite receiving a 10-second penalty. Ricciardo completed the podium in third, while Max Verstappen achieved his best F1 result with a fourth-place finish.
In a remarkable turn of events, Fernando Alonso claimed fifth place, delivering a strong result for McLaren Honda. Lewis Hamilton showcased his resilience, making an impressive recovery to secure sixth position, followed by Romain Grosjean in seventh, and Rosberg in an unexpectedly low eighth place. Jenson Button’s ninth-place finish added to McLaren’s success, with Marcus Ericsson rounding off the top ten.
The podium finishers dedicated their triumphs to Jules Bianchi, a testament to the enduring impact of the cherished Marussia driver. The Hungarian Grand Prix of 2015 will forever be remembered as a race filled with intense emotions, unforgettable incidents, and incredible racing moments.
