Three Formula 1 teams have remained at the Hungaroring circuit following the 2026 Hungarian Grand Prix to conduct crucial tyre development testing for the 2027 season. Aston Martin, Audi, and Alpine are participating in the two-day session, scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday this week.
The post-race testing is a standard procedure for Pirelli, the sport’s sole tyre supplier, as it continues to refine compounds and constructions for future regulations. This particular test focuses on the 2027 tyre specifications.
The Hungarian Grand Prix, held on Sunday, July 26, saw Lando Norris secure victory for McLaren. Max Verstappen finished second for Red Bull Racing, with Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli completing the podium in third place.
Oscar Piastri, Norris’s teammate at McLaren, retired from the race due to a gearbox failure. Red Bull’s Isack Hadjar finished sixth, while Lewis Hamilton, now driving for Ferrari, placed fifth after receiving a five-second penalty for pit lane speeding.
Pirelli’s objective for the Hungaroring test is to gather data on thermal stability and rear-tyre performance. These areas are considered central to the development of future compounds.
The Hungaroring circuit presents a demanding environment for tyre evaluation. Its short, narrow, and technical layout, featuring 14 corners, offers little recovery time between turns.
Budapest frequently experiences some of the highest track temperatures of the season, subjecting tyres to severe thermal stress. This makes the circuit an ideal location for assessing compound durability.
For the 2026 Hungarian Grand Prix, Pirelli supplied the C3, C4, and C5 compounds. The circuit has also undergone recent upgrades, with Turns 1 and 12 resurfaced for this year’s event.
Laurent Mekies serves as the Team Principal and CEO of Oracle Red Bull Racing, a role he assumed in July 2025. Max Verstappen and Isack Hadjar form the team’s driver lineup for the 2026 season.
Adrian Newey has taken on the role of Team Principal for Aston Martin in 2026. Alan Permane leads the Visa Cash App Racing Bulls team as Team Principal.
The Hungarian Grand Prix marked the conclusion of the first phase of the 2026 Formula 1 season before the traditional summer break.
