MotoGP: Balaton Circuit divides opinions among Ducati riders

After 33 years, MotoGP returns to Hungary. The Balaton Park circuit opened in 2023 and was added to the calendar this season. However, its layout caused a clash of styles and divided opinions among some riders. During the summer break, riders from the Ducati, Gresini, and VR46 teams rode the Panigale V4 on this new track. However, opinions about the layout were mixed.

Marc Márquez was enthusiastic when asked about his impressions of the circuit, stating that this type of track brings greater variety to the calendar: "Ultimately, in a championship, you need different circuits." The Spaniard stated that the track isn't too difficult to get to know, as it's small, and compared it to Sachsenring due to its left-hand turns, which favor his driving style.

On the other hand, his teammate, Pecco Bagnaia, was more cautious. The Italian emphasized that the circuit will require significant adjustments to the bikes' setup, as it is very slow and doesn't appear to be ideal for MotoGP racing: "I think we'll use 1st through 5th gears because we won't have time to shift into 6th gear."

The VR46 riders, however, were more positive about the track. Di Giannantonio stated that it will be interesting to see how MotoGP will adapt to the tighter sections of the circuit, and Morbidelli described it as cool, narrow, and technical: "It will be an interesting weekend. It's a track with a different style than we've seen before."

Even with differing opinions among some drivers, it is certain that the weekend between August 22nd and 24th will be marked by curiosity surrounding this new stage.