Work to lay a new asphalt is already underway, with diggers having been sent it to rip up the old surface.

Amazingly, much of the circuit asphalt dates back to 1985/6 when it was originally built, with the only areas that have been modernised being the pit straight and last corner.

A complete resurfacing has been planned for at least four years now, and during the last F1 race in July the owners admitted the works could not be delayed for any longer.

The plan is to rip up the top 3-5 centimetres of track surface and then relay it, with the substructure beneath it still believed to be in good condition.

Other circuit changes

The gravel trap at Turn 10, the fast left-hand kink, will also be removed and replaced with a new asphalt run-off area. New double-width kerbs will also be installed at Turns 4 and 11.

Works on the resurfacing are expected to last for about two months, which means they will be completed before this winter or next spring depending on the weather.

Bigger revamp on hold

Back in July, the Hungaroring announced plans for a bigger circuit upgrade with state funding, but despite positive reaction from some local government members, a final green light on the work has not yet been given.

With everything except for the medical centre is need of demolition and reconstruction, the estimated cost for this work could be as high as $90 million.