By Phil Huff (19/08/2003)
August 19 2003

Hungary has a good racing pedigree; the first Grand Prix in 1906 was won by the Hungarian Ferenc Szisz, and racing in Budapest goes back to 1926. This first Eastern Bloc venue was built with the help of a state loan, and the natural amphitheatre attracted vast crowds to its early races. Initial construction problems with an underground sprint meant the track was rather too twisty, but thankfully, this was later overcome.

In time for the 2003 race, the Hungaroring has seen some alterations to the layout of the track. Previously, the track has been criticised for its tendency to produce processional races, with few chances for overtaking. This year, the first corner is to be tightened, while turn 11 is to be replaced with a new low gear corner.

When, later this month, Jacques Villeneuve and Jenson Button line up for the Hungarian Grand Prix, their presence on the grid will mark another significant landmark in Honda's remarkable motor sport pedigree. At the Hungaroring on Sunday 24 August, Honda will be celebrating its 250th Grand Prix start. It is a Formula One milestone that only three other manufacturers have achieved - Ford, Ferrari and Renault.

Honda-powered drivers have taken victory in Hungary five times, Nelson Piquet taking the chequered flag in 1986 and 1987 and Ayrton Senna winning in 1988, 1991 and 1992.

Honda drivers have also been on the podium 11 times at the Hungaroring.

The circuit itself is 2.724 miles (4.384 km) long, and there'll be 70 laps on Sunday - a total of 190.691 miles (306.873 km). The race Start is at 14.00 local time (13.00 BST).