WATCH: Nelson Piquet's historic pass on Ayrton Senna at the Hungaroring during Hungarian Grand Prix 1986

The 1986 Hungarian Grand Prix was a landmark event, marking Formula One's first venture behind the Iron Curtain. This race not only brought F1 to Hungary but also delivered one of the most iconic overtaking manoeuvres in the sport's history, courtesy of Brazilian legends Nelson Piquet and Ayrton Senna.

Held at the twisty and narrow Hungaroring, the race was a thrilling spectacle, with the primary duel between Piquet in his Williams and Senna in his Lotus. The track, known for its tight turns and limited overtaking opportunities, set the stage for a dramatic showdown.

Ayrton Senna, renowned for his fierce defensive driving, was leading the race with his black and gold Lotus. As they approached Turn 1 on the 57th lap, Senna positioned his car in the middle of the track, effectively protecting the inside line and daring Piquet to find a way around the outside.

Here is the video:

1986 Hungarian GP: Nelson Piquet's fantastic pass on Ayrton Senna at the Hungaroring. #F1



It's one of the greatest passes in Formula One history! #HungarianGP pic.twitter.com/FCBUJlQ8cO

— Paul McGinnes 🏁 (@PaulMcG92) July 15, 2024

Piquet, already a double world champion, had overtaken Senna twice before during the race but was determined to make this move stick. Having closed the gap to Senna after losing ground in the pit stops, Piquet's aggressive driving style was on full display. He darted out of Senna's slipstream, and in a shower of sparks, he made his move on the outside of Turn 1.

Carrying immense speed, Piquet braked late and locked his right-rear tyre, sending his Williams into a lurid slide. For a moment, it seemed as though he might lose control, but in a masterful display of car handling, Piquet managed to control the slide and cut in front of Senna, denying him any chance of a counterattack. This manoeuvre, executed with precision and bravery, was Formula One racing at its finest.

Ayrton Senna failed to get the lead again!

Once ahead, Piquet stretched his lead, ultimately winning the race by a comfortable 17 seconds. Senna, unable to match the straight-line speed of the Williams, had to settle for second place despite his valiant efforts.

Also Check: Who are last five race winners of Hungarian Grand Prix?

The crowd, estimated at around 200,000, witnessed this electrifying moment, making it the largest sporting attendance in Hungarian history at that time. The race was a testament to the skill and courage of both drivers and left an indelible mark on F1 history.

In the end, Piquet's daring pass on Senna at the 1986 Hungarian Grand Prix remains one of the most celebrated overtakes in Formula One, showcasing the essence of high-stakes racing and the sheer determination of two of the sport's greatest talents.