Balaton Park Circuit is a 4.115 km (2.557 mi) motor racing circuit located near Balatonfőkajár, Hungary, 85 km (53 mi) southwest of Budapest. The track is designed to host regional and international races. The circuit was opened in May 2023.[2]
History
Balaton Park Circuit – Pitlane
The main phase of construction for the Balaton Park started in 2019.[3] The racetrack is owned by a private group of investors led by former racecar driver Chanoch Nissany. The project was financed using the investors' own equity, without any involvement from banks or external funding. The circuit is intended to be a modern addition to Hungary's motor racing scene, complementing the older and well-established Hungaroring circuit.[2]
In September 2023, it was revealed that the circuit will be planned to be included in the Superbike World Championship in 2024, and it will be also the reserve venue of MotoGP World Championship in the same year before the return of Hungarian motorcycle Grand Prix to Hungaroring in 2025.[4][5] On 26 October 2023, it was confirmed that the circuit will host its first World SBK race on 23–25 August 2024.[6] However, on 7 June 2024, it was announced that the World SBK round at the circuit was replaced by the round at Circuito do Estoril due to the ongoing works at the circuit.[7] On 19 September 2024, it was announced that the circuit will host both Grand Prix motorcycle racing and Superbike World Championship next year, the former will be held in August 2025, the latter will be held in July 2025.[8][9] For these motorcycle races, there will be significant changes to the circuit.[10] Turns 6 and 7, instead of a double apex turn, will be converted to two doglegs with a straight connecting the two, a chicane replacing the Turn 11 dogleg, and a tight Turn 13 that connects to a tight right-handed Turn 14 and into a left-handed Turn 15 that ensures walls will be further from the circuit. The redesign is by Loris Capirossi.
Design and facilities
The Balaton Park Circuit has been planned and constructed according to the FIA Grade 1 standards, initially obtaining a Grade 2 license. The track features Tecpro barriers and 'MyLaps' latest technology, including GPS, LED Panels and timing systems.[11]
The track has a length of 4.115 km (2.557 mi) and varies in width between 12–15 m (13–16 yd). It consists of 16 corners, with six right turns and ten left turns in its full and only layout. The circuit's facilities include 48 pit garages, VIP areas and lounges, media center, medical center, and two additional support paddock areas.[12] For the Grand Prix motorcycle racing and Superbike World Championship next year, there will be new layout created for motorcycle races.[10]
