Former Formula 1 driver Giancarlo Fisichella has praised the new Batalon Park Circuit in Hungary.
The new circuit is located 87km (54mi) to the south-west of Budapest, where the Hungaroring is based.
Situated in the Batalon region, which is popular amongst tourists, the capacity of the circuit is capable of reaching 120,000 spectators.
The track is safe enough to host F1 and MotoGP events after being given Grade 1 status by the FIA.
Fisichella raced in F1 for 13 years and was a part of the Renault team that won back-to-back double world championships in 2005 and 2006, before joining Force India and Ferrari.
“I was impressed by the character of the racetrack,” Fisichella said to the media. “This course offers everything – an exciting mix of high-speed curves, challenging hairpins and cool chicanes.
“Overtaking opportunities are available in the first corner and at the opposite end of the straight (Turn 12). It’s just a pleasure to drive on the Batalon Park Circuit.
Will the Hungarian GP move venue?
In 2020, the Hungaroring signed a new deal to host the Hungarian GP until 2027.
If F1 elects to race at the new Batalon Park Circuit, it will be the first time since 1986 the Hungarian GP has not been hosted in Budapest.
Batalon Park Circuit features six left-handers, 10 right-handers, and ranges between 12m wide and 15m wide, running in an anti-clockwise loop.
Ferenc Gulacsi designed the new 4.115km (2.55 miles) track, which has €200 million of investment.
Three key elements were prioritised in the design: safety, challenge and sustainability.
“When it came to design, three aspects were most important to me: safety, the challenge for the active, and sustainability,” Gulacsi said to the media.
“I am pleased we have reached a point today that the route is ready for use and the first flag can be waved.”
