The Sedesa group will begin construction of the Balatonring in September near the village of Savoly, close to the FlyBalaton airport at Sármellek and the M7 motorway. Sedesa also plans to build a five-start wellness hotel, a golf course and to operate a motorcycle school under the auspices of Hungarian motorcycle racer Talmácsi at the site.

National Development and Economy Minister Gordon Bajnai said the government will provide support for the project, which is expected to have a favorable effect on tourism and the economy. Bajnai said details of the support will be revealed later, adding that the investment will create almost 800 jobs in the region.

Sedesa expects to complete the Balatonring in 8-10 months. The first Hungarian Grand Prix event will be held in September 2009 and each subsequent year until 2013. The race will be held outside the main summer season.

The circuit will be 4,650 meters long and will be similar to the one located in Valencia, Spain. The proposals of motorcycle racers Valentino Rossi and Gábor Talmácsi will also be taken into consideration in the circuit’s design. Talmácsi said one of his great dreams will come true when he can race in front of the Hungarian audiences in 2009, adding that he would compete in the 250cc category.

The Hungarian Grand Prix is expected to attract 110-140,000 visitors. (MTI – Econews)