FC2Video

ING rates the Turkish Grand Prix at Istanbul Park highly among the Formula One circuits. These are the facts: Circuit- Istanbul Park is by far the best Grand Prix circuit built in recent years. The track flows constantly up- und downhill, and the curve combinations are amongst the most demanding in the Formula One. Strain on Drivers - Curve 8 puts over 5gs of centrifugal force on the drivers, taking them to their physical limits. The circuit is also hazardous, because cars tend to bottom out, lose grip and become instable. Vehicle Set Up - Beside the burning straightaways, there are also slow segments requiring exceptional traction. Good aerodynamic efficiency is the key to fast lap times. Engineering Requirements - With 66.5% full-throttle sections, Instanbul Park is among the fastest circuits. Drivers shift 38 times per lap, which is relatively easy on gearboxes. Brake wear is also comparatively low.

ING has determined that the Hungarian Grand Prix could benefit from more challenging format. Next to Monaco, the Hungaroring is the circuit with the lowest average speed - due to its 14 curves and relatively short straightaway. Overtaking usually results from other driver’s mistakes or a clever pit stop strategy. Usually this summer Formula One Grand Prix is a real high-temperature race and the number of curves takes its toll on the drive’s concentration. The track is very sandy - just like the plains of Hungary. That means poor traction. The cars are set up for maximum downforce. The many curves make good vehicle balance crucial. Heat and dust not only play a big role in the cockpit, but in vehicle technology as well. Frequent shifting and changes in speed mean excessive strain on the car’s mechanical and electronic components. The Hungarian Grand Prix represents the ideal transition into the summer break fort the Formula One.