F1 News
Honda expects cooling issue possibilities at Hungary
Honda Formula 1 director Toyuharu Tanabe believes that the Hungarian Grand Prix could pose some challenges to cooling due to high temperatures and humidity.
The Japanese engine manufacturer is heading to the Hungaroring off the back of two wins in three races at the Austrian Grand Prix and German Grand Prix through Max Verstappen and Red Bull.
Not only that but Red Bull’s sister team Toro Rosso, who started using Honda engines last season, managed their first podium since 2008.
But Tanabe was quick to put the success behind and focus on the next race at Hungary.
Tanabe said: "The race in Germany last week was another special race for us, acquiring a second win with Red Bull Racing and also our first podium with Toro Rosso.
"We briefly celebrated the moment with both teams right after the race, but immediately set to work starting the preparations for this weekend in Hungary.
"Located in hilly landscapes, the Hungaroring is an interesting track, enjoyable from the drivers' point of view with its oscillating layout.
"In terms of what is required from the PU for this track, outright power is not the main factor.
“But, combining good drivability from the engine with traction from the chassis is the key to dealing with the slow corners.
"Here we can expect another hot and humid weekend, therefore cooling is once again something we have to take care of.
“We’ve already faced a couple of hot weekends and we think we can reflect our learning from there."
The Hungarian GP is a special place for Honda and Tanabe after Jenson Button took his first win in F1 with Honda in 2006.
"Hungary holds a special memory for Honda and myself, with the victory of Jenson Button’s win in 2006,” he added.
"We hope to continue our very good momentum from Germany, having had a double podium, and look to have a good result in Hungary just before entering the summer break."
