BUDAPEST, Hungary (AP) — Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton showed he will undoubtedly be the driver to beat in qualifying later Saturday as he secured the fastest time in final practice.
Hamilton was quickest in both of Friday’s practice runs and completed his hat trick with a leading time of 1 minute, 22.997 seconds, putting him .098 seconds ahead of Mercedes teammate Nico Rosberg and .889 clear of Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel.
Hamilton has been outstanding in qualifying and now goes for a ninth pole in 10 races.
There was a late worry for Rosberg as his car slowed and then ground to a halt coming out of the pitlane.
Rosberg climbed slowly out of his car, removed his race helmet and stood for a few moments looking confused before walking back to his garage.
