The Hungarian Grand Prix has become a staple on the Formula 1 calendar since its introduction to the world championship in 1986. The first Eastern Bloc grand prix, the race is as famous for its tight and twisting track configuration as its arid and scorching climate - both of which conspire to create a uniquely demanding event for teams and drivers alike.
Ayrton Senna has won at the Hungaroring for McLaren on three occasions, in 1988, '91 and '92. More recently, Mika Hakkinen ('99 and 2000) and Kimi Raikkonen ('05) have triumphed for McLaren-Mercedes - much to the delight of the huge Finnish contingent, who have made this race a home from home for many years. Lewis Hamilton won the race from pole position last year.
The Budapest circuit has been modified from its original configuration twice: in 1989, the tight hairpins following Turn Two were ironed out; in 2003, the 180-degree first corner was extensively re-profiled into a sharper hairpin to increase overtaking opportunities. This weekend's race will mark the 23rd running of the event.
Two wins in the last two grands prix and now a return to the Hungaroring, where you won last year. Do you feel confident ahead of this year's race?
Lewis: "I'm wary about making any strong predictions; yes, we were strong in the last two races, but we encountered difficulties in the two before that, so it's impossible to call it this weekend. All I can say is that our car feels fantastic at the moment and I'm really enjoying driving it: it feels like you can keep fine-tuning it to extract more performance from it, which is a fantastic feeling for any racing driver."
The Hungaroring is quite a unique circuit - what makes it stands out?
Lewis: "Hungary is very different from Germany; Hockenheim is a track that allows you to slipstream and pass other drivers fairly easily, the Hungaroring is the opposite of that. Qualifying will be crucial, and strategy will also be important in determining the optimum fuel-weight for the opening stint. It will be hot and tiring too, so keeping your focus and concentration will be vital. I don't go into this weekend surfing any particular wave of confidence: it's such a different type of circuit that it's difficult for anybody to feel certain about their chances."
The last two victories have given your championship hopes considerable momentum - are you now thinking about driving consistently with an eye on the title?
Lewis: "It's easy to say that you'll treat each race with a certain amount of respect. But the reality is that I haven't changed my style: it seems to work for me and I enjoy pushing hard to achieve a good result. That's when I feel I am operating at my maximum and it's potentially dangerous to start thinking about changing your approach at this point in the season. I'll be honest: my approach has served me fairly well so far and I'd need to give it some serious thought before attempting to change it. Let's just say it will be business as usual in Hungary this weekend."
For more information go to www.mclaren.com/f1season/2008/hungary/preview.php
