The 2026 Hungarian Grand Prix trophies, crafted by the Herendi Porcelánmanufaktúra, feature traditional Hungarian motifs and upgraded materials, including platinum for second-place awards.
How are the Hungarian Grand Prix trophies produced?
The manufacturing process for the Formula 1 trophies begins after the previous year’s race concludes. According to Attila Simon, CEO of the 200-year-old Herendi Porcelánmanufaktúra, the trophies reached their final form over half a year. The final forms, adorned with motifs drawn from Hungarian folk art, undergo formal coordination with rights holders before completion.
For the upcoming races, the trophies include a 53-centimeter, 3-kilogram piece for the race winner and a 52-centimeter, 4-kilogram platter for the winning constructor. A notable material update involves the second-place trophy, which is now finished in platinum rather than silver. Simon noted that while platinum costs are comparable to gold, it offers the technical advantage of being non-oxidizing.
The tradition of Herendi-made trophies for the Hungarian Grand Prix has remained consistent for the last ten years, marking a two-decade history of collaboration between the porcelain manufacturer and the race organizers.
What is the status of the relationship between F1 drivers and the manufacturer?
The manufacturer maintains a notable connection with drivers, even those who have retired or moved to other teams. Sebastian Vettel, who publicly requested Herendi porcelain after his 2015 victory, was named an honorary member of the manufacturer. Similarly, Lando Norris became an honorary member following a 2023 incident where he accidentally broke Max Verstappen’s trophy during a champagne celebration.
According to Simon, the company has even offered Norris a position as a porcelain painter. While the driver has not accepted, the offer remains open.
How does the Hungaroring manage its financial independence?
As the Hungarian Grand Prix approaches its 40th anniversary, questions regarding the financial structure of the event have emerged. Amidst government discussions regarding stricter oversight for state-funded sports events, Zsolt Gyulay, President and CEO of Hungaroring Sport Zrt., stated that the circuit operates on an independent, market-based model.
According to Gyulay, the Hungaroring does not receive state funding for the maintenance of the facility or the organization of the race. The circuit relies on ticket sales and other commercial revenues to cover its operating costs. Gyulay emphasized that because the event is not reliant on central government subsidies, it remains unaffected by current directives aimed at state-funded sports projects.
Fans planning to attend can access the Fan Zone with tickets priced at 35 euros for adults and 10 euros for children, providing access to public spaces and stage events.
What changes are coming to the Hungaroring circuit?
In celebration of the 40th anniversary of the Hungarian Grand Prix, organizers have introduced several initiatives to enhance the fan experience. These include the naming of circuit corners, a process that began last year following public suggestions and a review by a professional committee. The official naming will occur on the Friday of the race weekend, featuring a surprise guest for whom one of the corners is named.
Additional events include a photo exhibition in Millenáris Park open until July 28, a dedicated Hungaroring-themed passenger ship on the Danube, and various city-wide installations. Despite high demand for the Thursday pit lane walk, the event expects a full house, mirroring the attendance figures of approximately 300,000 spectators seen in recent years.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are the Hungarian Grand Prix trophies made of silver?
- While silver has been used historically, the second-place trophy is now made with platinum to prevent oxidation, according to Herendi Porcelánmanufaktúra.
- Does the Hungarian government fund the Hungaroring?
- According to Zsolt Gyulay, Hungaroring Sport Zrt. operates as a self-sustaining entity that uses its own ticket and commercial revenues to fund the race and maintain the facility.
- How long does it take to create the trophies?
- The design and manufacturing process for the trophies takes approximately six months, starting after the conclusion of the previous year’s race.
Have you visited the Hungaroring or seen the trophies in person? Share your thoughts in the comments below, or subscribe to our newsletter for more updates on the 2026 racing season.