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Budapest will provide the backdrop for the seventh round of the Bridgestone-supported GP2 Series, to be held at the Hungarian Grand Prix on 30 July – 1 August. Bridgestone’s soft specification dry tyre will be in use at this technical venue.
The Hungaroring is the second shortest circuit on the 2010 GP2 calendar at 4.381 km and is a relatively slow track, the teams requiring high traction in the numerous low speed corners. It is a unique circuit which includes some similar challenges to Monaco’s street course, whilst still being a purpose built venue.
The track is narrow making it difficult to overtake here, and car balance and mechanical grip is key. Bridgestone’s soft compound Potenza racing slicks are well suited to the track characteristics, although the possible high temperatures create a challenge in terms of tyre usage and degradation.
The 2009 GP2 Series champion Nico Hulkenberg and Giedo van der Garde both won races in Budapest last season on Bridgestone’s soft compound GP2 dry tyre.
“With limited overtaking opportunities at the Hungaroring it is essential for drivers to perform well in qualifying and to gain on-track advantages through good tyre management,” said Hirohide Hamashima - Director of Bridgestone Motorsport Tyre Development. “Turn one provides the best chance for overtaking, with another potential passing point being at turn two.”
“If a driver makes a mistake in the final complex, which is a difficult part of the track to master, then they could lose a position on the start finish straight. Last year our soft compound GP2 dry tyre performed well at Budapest with the drivers experiencing reasonable tyre wear and degradation.” |
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