At dusk the FIA GT cars made a sudden appearance in the city. They were led by Vitaphone Racing Team DHL’s third Maserati MC12, driven by Matteo Bobbi. The parade left from the Hungaroring circuit (some 20 km from the capital) and headed for Hösők Ter where fans, onlookers and tourists had gathered to take a snap or try for an autograph.

The autograph signing session was special. In took place in Heroes’ Square, a historic corner of the city and site of the Millennial Monument and the sculptures that represent the seven Magyar patriarchs as well as other important figures from Hungary’s past. In the centre of the square is a column topped by a statue of Archangel Gabriel. Legend has it that he appeared before Saint Stephen, the first king of Hungary, to suggest that he accept the Pope’s crown and Christian religion. The suggestion was accepted and led to Hungary becoming one of the most important monarchies in medieval Europe.