Lewis Hamilton 'fuelled' by Hungarian booing after 'gamesmanship' secures pole

Hamilton in Hungary — Photo: © LAT Images

Hungarian Grand Prix

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Hamilton 'fuelled' by Hungarian booing after 'gamesmanship' secures pole

Hamilton lowered his speed to 24mph on his final out lap

Sam Hall

Saturday 31 July 2021 16:32 Updated: 16:43

Lewis Hamilton has claimed booing from the grandstands "fuels me" after securing pole position for the Hungarian Grand Prix.

Hamilton's topped the Q3 order after his first effort and his one minute 15.419secs was enough to secure pole.

The grandstands turned on the seven-time champion, however, after he slowed to just 24mph on his final out lap of the session in a bid to hinder title-rival Max Verstappen's assault.

A banner also reads 'Sir Cheat - karma is on its way'.

Red Bull team principal Christian Horner stated: "It is a bit of gamesmanship. Lewis has got a hell of a lap in the bag and he is just backing things up and doesn't want to give our cars a clean run."

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"It was an amazing qualifying lap," said Hamilton. "I think it's been amazing teamwork from everyone this weekend, Valtteri included, just trying to push the car forwards, developing constantly.

"The guys back at the factory have not left any stone unturned.

"It's been amazing to see everyone coming together, rallying up and pushing forwards and I appreciate the great support I have here.

Addressing the booing, Hamilton added: "Honestly, I've never actually felt so great with the booing. If anything, it just fuels me so I don't really mind it."

The gamesmanship confirmed Mercedes would start the race with Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas both on the front row ahead of Verstappen, the Dutchman joined by team-mate Sergio Perez on the second row.

In Q2, a session topped by Verstappen, Red Bull also used the soft tyres whilst Mercedes opted for the medium compound, setting up an intriguing strategic battle for Sunday.

"I think the soft tyre is worth something like five metres down into turn one. It's a long way down to turn one," Hamilton explained.

"It's surprising to see the guys behind us, obviously, everyone in the top 10 is on the softs except for us.

"It's definitely great having a lockout for our team. It's the first time in a long time."