Norris spotted with pudding as Hungaroring readies for 2pm BST lights out
Lights are due to go out at the Hungaroring at 2pm BST, with the paddock already feeling the heat as race build-up continues. Lando Norris was seen eating what appears to be rice pudding while Bono reported the track temperature at 50 degrees and that a wind was beginning to pick up.
The atmosphere on the grid mixed familiar faces with motorsport veterans and a smaller celebrity presence than at some of the glitzier venues. Martin Brundle broke into his own dance routine on the apron, while Laurence Stroll, described by the coverage as Mr Aston Martin, was present and appeared satisfied with his team. At one point Adrian Newey was reported as not being around, so Brundle missed a chance to speak to him, and FIA veteran Herbie Blash recalled the first Hungarian Grand Prix from 1966 fondly. George Hendy, identified as a rugby man, was enjoying time on the grid and Joe Ramirez, another long-standing attendee, noted he has been to every Grand Prix here and that his first ever was Monaco in 1962.
A short exchange with Bono, introduced as Antonelli’s man, addressed the penalty handed to Antonelli. "Bit rough," he says of the Antonelli penalty. "We’re at least on the grippy side of the grid." Those comments came amid the informal paddock chatter as teams finalised setups for the race.
Despite an initial note that Adrian Newey was not present, the great designer did appear on the paddock and was observed taking a close look at the McLaren. "We had so little prep time," he says. Observers noted him inspecting components and the car’s layout as teams made last adjustments ahead of the start.
Martin Brundle’s lively presence on the grid contrasted with the otherwise businesslike preparations; his animation added a lighter moment as mechanics and engineers completed checks. Laurence Stroll remained visible and engaged, keeping a close eye on Aston Martin’s personnel and the final preparations. The paddock, while busy, lacked some of the celebrity turnout seen at bigger events; there was no sign of David Beckham or Tom Brady among the attendees.
Familiar figures from other disciplines also contributed remarks. Casey Stoney, described in the notes as a bikes legend, offered an assessment of the current regulations and power levels: "There’s ups and downs with the regs, it’s overcomplicated, I like how much power there is." Her perspective formed part of the wider, colourful commentary that filled the grid area before proceedings moved toward the national anthem.
The pre-race ritual moved the gathering toward the anthem and the final countdown to lights out. With track temperatures high and teams completing last-minute checks, attention is fixed on the 2pm BST start and how the extreme conditions will affect the opening laps.