The Vodafone McLaren Mercedes Formula One will travel to Hungary over the next few days as the Woking based squad prepares for the race, which takes place less than 20km from the centre of Budapest. The team leads the Constructors’ Championship with a total of 138 points, 27 points ahead of the nearest competitor. Lewis Hamilton has a total of 70 points, with the winner of the European Grand Prix, Fernando, only two behind with 68.

What are the main characteristics of the circuit?
Hungary is one of the most technical and demanding circuits, despite being the second slowest of the season. The track is made up of tight and complicated turns, with little opportunity for the drivers to overtake. Turn one provides the best chance, with others having difficult bumps, cambers or being too tight. For example turn four is a sharp, blind uphill right-hander, which despite seeing attempts overtaking tests driving technique.

Is high downforce the most important factor at the Hungaroring?
High downforce is the main influence as the priority is to be fast through the technical turns that make up the majority of the circuit. It is vital that the performance is concentrated on cornering rather than achieving high speeds.

Why is qualifying key?
Qualifying is key due to the limited opportunities to pass on the track, with turn one providing the only genuine opportunity for the driver to overtake their opponent. It is important to therefore obtain a good position for the starting grid.

How have the drivers and team fared at the Hungaroring in previous years?
The track was the location of Fernando’s first win in Formula 1; he became the youngest driver to win a World Championship Grand Prix less than a month after his 22^nd birthday at the 2003 race. Lewis’s only appearance at the track was in the 2006 GP2 race, which as with the Grand Prix was rain affected. Lewis took a podium in the sprint race, having finished in 10^th in the feature race. In the past the team has also seen success at the event, with wins from past drivers such as Ayrton Senna, Mika Häkkinen and Kimi Raikkonen.