Toro Rosso's Pierre Gasly is impatient to race an F1 car at the Hungaroring, and ready to tackle the circuit's technical and physical challenges.
The venue, located just outside Budapest, holds good memories for the 22-year-old Frenchman who was often a front-runner in Hungary in the junior categories.
"I won there in 2013 in Renault 2.0 litre, I was second in 2014 in 3.5, second in 2015 in GP2 and first, again in GP2, in 2016, so it’s a track that seems to work well for me," said the Toro Rosso driver.
"It’s one of my favourite tracks because it’s very technical, which is something I like. It’s important to get into a good flowing rhythm and on a track with so few straight sections, the driver can really make the difference.
"With one corner leading straight into another, it’s important to get the flow working, because if you make a mistake at one turn, it has a big impact on the following ones.
"However, rather like Monaco, overtaking here is complicated, therefore qualifying is even more important than usual. In terms of pure driving though, I love it, as there are all sorts of corner types: slow, medium and fast, long corners, heavy braking ones, so it has a bit of everything," he added.
"Given that I really like it, I can’t wait to find out what it will be like in an F1 car. I reckon it will be a pure pleasure! "
Basking in the Hungarian summer heat is a treat for the event's many fans, most of which converge in droves to Budapest from neighboring Central European countries.
But the hot, demanding conditions coupled with the circuit's own physical demands require abundant personal energy and focus. The Gas-man is up to the task however and determined to head into F1's summer break with a good result for himself and Toro Rosso.
"I’m not bothered about the fact it is going to be extremely hot this weekend, as I am in good shape, even though it has been a long and tough season so far," said Gasly.
"I’m well prepared for the conditions and I hope we will be able to get a good result to take with us into the summer break.
"It would be important psychologically for the entire team to pick up some points and we will all be working very hard to achieve that.
"I love racing, but I think the break will be a good thing, because everyone is quite tired and needs some time at home with the family.
"It's the perfect moment to cut the season in half and I will be going on holiday with my friends and those that are close to me. But before that, let’s give it everything in Budapest!"
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