Bernie Ecclestone Gives a Thumbs Up to The Hungarian Grand Prix in Budapest

Budapest has always been a city that blends history, culture, and modern excitement, but when Formula 1 rolls into town, the capital and its surroundings take on an even more electric vibe. The 40th Hungarian Grand Prix at Hungaroring was a true celebration of speed, style, and star power, drawing in locals and visitors from across the globe. For those of you visiting Budapest this summer, you picked the perfect weekend to see the city in full swing.

A Star-Studded Celebration

One of the undeniable highlights was the arrival of Hollywood and music royalty. Among the most exciting guests was Anya Taylor-Joy, star of “The Queen’s Gambit.” Not only is she filming in Budapest, but she also made time to enjoy the Grand Prix weekend, mingling with fans and dazzling in the Ferrari garage with her eye-catching fashion choices. Her presence in the paddock made headlines and highlighted how Budapest is fast becoming a choice destination for both movie productions and mega events.

But the red-carpet feeling didn’t stop with Taylor-Joy. The legendary frontman of Guns N’ Roses, Axl Rose, was spotted cheering on Max Verstappen from the Red Bull Racing suite. Rose was approachable and enthusiastic—snapping selfies with fans between sessions and soaking up the adrenaline of race day. Meanwhile, Anthony Mackie, beloved as Captain America, was effusive about Hungaroring, calling it one of his favorite tracks and adding to the Hollywood buzz.

The Bernie Ecclestone Perspective

No story about the Hungarian Grand Prix would be complete without a nod to Bernie Ecclestone, the visionary behind Formula 1’s global expansion. In a recent interview, the 94-year-old legend reflected on the evolution of the event he helped bring to Hungary more than four decades ago. Ecclestone praised the Hungaroring’s transformation, stating that the recent renovations have elevated it to “one of the world’s best circuits”—a far cry from its humble beginnings in the 1980s.

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Looking back, Ecclestone spoke warmly about the early days, crediting Hungarian promoter Tamás Rohonyi for bringing the Grand Prix to Mogyoród. For Ecclestone, the real secret to the event’s enduring success is the passionate local crowd, whose enthusiasm has never waned. He also hinted at personal happiness rather than pride, grateful to have been part of something so enduring. And if you’re curious about his youthful vigor, he joked about the benefits of a simple, healthy lifestyle—no secret recipe, just moderation.

More Than Just a Race

With icons like Jamie Dornan and even “Hide the Pain Harold” among the spectators, the Hungarian Grand Prix is a magnet for both serious fans and curious visitors. The weekend buzzes with action both on and off the track—VIP parties, sponsor activations, informal meet-ups, and the ever-present hum of anticipation.

For foreign tourists, the Grand Prix is a golden opportunity to see Budapest at its most dynamic. The city’s excellent public transport, vibrant cuisine, and storied landmarks are just a short trip from the Hungaroring circuit. Whether you’re chasing autographs, soaking up the sunset over the Danube with a glass of Tokaji, or exploring Budapest’s cafés and ruin pubs, the Grand Prix weekend offers the perfect blend of sport, culture, and celebrity spotting.

Budapest: Where Film, Fashion, and F1 Collide

Budapest is emerging as a true crossroads for the creative and the glamorous. With stars like Anya Taylor-Joy choosing the city as a working and social hub—not just for film shoots but for world-class events—the Hungarian capital is firmly on the map for global travelers seeking more than just a city break. When you combine the thrills of Formula 1, the allure of Hollywood in town, and the infectious energy of the Grand Prix crowds, Budapest delivers a weekend you won’t forget.

So, if you’re planning to visit, keep your eyes open for stars, grab an Instagram-worthy selfie, and let Budapest surprise you—it’s a city that knows how to entertain, and the Grand Prix is its latest, greatest headline act.