Paddock Postcard from Hungary 06 Aug 2006
Ministerial medal for Bernie Ecclestone
Bernie Ecclestone was the guest of honour at a special presentation in Hungary on Sunday morning, as organisers celebrated his role in first bringing Formula One racing to the country 20 years ago.
Since the inaugural 1986 Grand Prix, when Hungary was still an eastern-bloc state, the Budapest race has been a permanent feature on the Formula One calendar. In recognition of the event’s 20th anniversary, organisers gifted Ecclestone a specially commissioned coffee set, created by world-famous Hungarian porcelain company, Herend. The same company has also made this weekend’s winners’ trophies.
On top of that Ecclestone received a special medal from the Hungarian Minister for Tourism and Sport, thanking him for the contribution that he and Formula One racing has made to the country.
“I always like to come to Hungary as Budapest is a fantastic city and the Hungaroring is one of the most demanding tracks,” said a delighted Ecclestone.
