TV Schedule for the 2026 Hungarian F1 Grand Prix

Meeting in Budapest from July 24 to 26 for the eleventh round of the 2026 F1 season.

As the last meeting before the summer break, the Hungarian Grand Prix promises a crucial weekend on a circuit where precision is more important than power.

After the long straights of Silverstone and the vast curves of Spa-Francorchamps, F1 takes a radical turn this weekend. Heading to the Hungaroring, the stage for the Hungarian Grand Prix, where the single-seaters face a winding and demanding track, often compared to a gigantic karting circuit. This eleventh round of the 2026 season also marks the start of summer vacations for the teams, all of which will want to leave Budapest on a high note.

The championship is entering an exciting phase. Kimi Antonelli, buoyed by his success in Belgium, will try to solidify his lead position. Ferrari, particularly convincing in the last two meetings, seems to have regained some of its competitiveness, while George Russell will look to halt a series of disappointing results. But eyes will also be on Aston Martin, which is expected to field a thoroughly revised AMR26. The Silverstone team is introducing a significant technical package, to the point that some are already talking about a true “B” version of their car.

Stretching 4.381 kilometers, the Hungaroring is unlike any other modern circuit. With its fourteen corners and a single true straight, it prioritizes maximum aerodynamic downforce, traction, and stability under braking. Overtaking is traditionally difficult here, which gives crucial importance to qualifying and strategy.

The surface, often very hot in the Hungarian summer, also puts the tires to the test. Teams must find the best compromise between lap speed and tire management over the course of a stint. A well-balanced car often makes more of a difference than just engine power.

A Grand Prix filled with history

The Hungarian Grand Prix holds a special place in the history of Formula 1. First held in 1986, it was the very first Grand Prix organized behind the Iron Curtain, considered a political as much as a sporting event just a few years before the fall of the Soviet bloc.

Built in record time about twenty kilometers from Budapest, the Hungaroring quickly became a must-visit location in the championship. For nearly forty years, it has offered races rich in twists and turns despite the difficulties of overtaking.

It was on this circuit that Damon Hill nearly delivered a historic victory for Arrows in 1997, only to be betrayed by his machinery in the final kilometers. Fernando Alonso secured his first-ever F1 victory here in 2003, becoming the youngest winner in history. More recently, Esteban Ocon achieved one of Alpine’s greatest exploits in 2021 with a perfectly controlled race.

Lewis Hamilton remains the master of the place with a record number of victories, proof that perfect mastery of the Hungaroring can make a difference year after year.

A decisive weekend

The Hungarian Grand Prix often serves as a first assessment before the summer break. Teams traditionally take advantage of this last race to introduce their final developments before weeks dedicated to developing the single-seaters for the next season.

As often in Budapest, pole position will likely be worth its weight in gold. But on such a demanding circuit, the slightest strategic error or incident can turn a seemingly straightforward race into a real thriller. That’s also what has made the Hungarian Grand Prix so charming for nearly four decades.

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TV Schedule for the Hungarian GP F1

Friday, July 24
1:15 PM – Free Practice 1 (Canal+ Sport)
4:45 PM – Free Practice 2 (Canal+ Sport)

Saturday, July 25
12:15 PM – Free Practice 3 (Canal+ Sport)
3:40 PM – Qualifying (Canal+ Sport)

Sunday, July 26
3:00 PM – Grand Prix (Canal+)