The Hungarian Grand Prix became part of the Formula 1 World Championship in 1986, making it the first F1 race held behind the Iron Curtain. It was a bold geopolitical and sporting move at the time, held at the newly constructed Hungaroring just outside Budapest.

The Hungaroring has signed long-term agreements to remain on the F1 calendar into the 2030s, with modernization upgrades in progress. It continues to play a key role in the mid-season European stretch, often falling just before or after the summer break.