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#IAMSTORIES: Fanni, Hungary

Ahead of the Hungarian Grand Prix, Aston Martin Cognizant Formula One™ Team is shining a spotlight on the passionate local fanbase.

From her hopes of seeing a new generation of Hungarian talent in Formula One, to her first experiences of the Hungaroring, this is Fanni's story in her own words. 

I was around four or five when I first started watching Formula One. My parents always watched the races, and I joined them. I remember my dad's favourite driver was Michael Schumacher, and my mum's was Damon Hill. 

The first race I went to was, of course, the Hungarian Grand Prix. I'm only 27, but since 2009, I've only missed three races at the Hungaroring, and my dad attended the first race in 1986. It's so special to me because it’s my home race.

Every time I visit the Hungaroring, I get goosebumps. It's one of the more historic circuits on the calendar, and I think the atmosphere is really great. The main straight is one of my favourite sections because the cars can go a little faster. 

I would love to see a Hungarian driver back in Formula One, as Zsolt Baumgartner was the last Hungarian racing driver to compete in the championship. But we have Norbert Michelisz in the World Touring Car Cup (WTCR) and László Tóth in Formula 3, so we never know what may happen in the future!

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Hungarian Grand Prix

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I was surprised when the return of Aston Martin to Formula One was announced, but now I'm looking forward to what the future holds. My favourite thing about Aston Martin Cognizant Formula One™ Team is the way it’s gone through a real revival.

My favourite driver is Sebastian. He is such a great role model. I remember I first met him in Szeged [Hungary], and he was such a lovely person. The last time I met him was in Austria. 

It shouldn't be any surprise that my favourite moment in Formula One history is Sebastian's first win in Monza, in 2008. Closer to home, my favourite is the 2015 Hungarian Grand Prix, which Sebastian won.

I would highly recommend coming to Hungary for the Grand Prix and making a trip of it. There's a lot to see, like the Kilátókő Statues, known as Prince Buda and Princess Pest. The view of the Pest side of the city is magnificent, especially in the evening.

Everyone who visits also needs to try goulash and stew. My favourites are cottage cheese dumplings with jam and puffed rice or rizskoch.