Hamilton Leads Ferrari One-Two as Hungarian GP Practice Takes a Dramatic Turn

Ferrari sets the pace in Budapest

Lewis Hamilton led a Ferrari one-two in the second free practice session for the Hungarian Grand Prix, reinforcing the team’s early control at the Hungaroring. Charles Leclerc, fastest in FP1, finished second in the sister SF-26, 0.15 seconds behind his team-mate.

The session was less productive for Aston Martin. Lance Stroll did not participate while his car was repaired after the left-rear suspension failure that interrupted FP1. The problem ruled him out for the remainder of the day and limited running for the team’s heavily revised B-spec AMR26.

Red flags disrupt the running

The session changed with 32 minutes remaining when Franco Colapinto crashed heavily at the final corner. The Alpine ran wide and went backwards into the barriers on a dusty, slippery surface affected by strong gusts of wind. The impact caused significant rear damage and brought out the second red flag of the day.

After a six-minute stoppage, Ferrari returned to the front. Leclerc and Hamilton became the first drivers to break into the 1:18s, with only a tenth separating them before Hamilton established a stronger advantage. The Ferrari driver ultimately put five tenths between himself and Norris in third.

Midfield battle remains tight

Racing Bulls and Audi continued their close fight at the head of the midfield. Liam Lawson finished seventh, while team-mate Arvid Lindblad was tenth, between the two Audis. Lindblad considered pushing Gabriel Bortoleto onto the grass late in the session, but told his team it would be “rude” during practice.

Kimi Antonelli ended FP2 in 13th after failing to complete a clean push lap. His first attempt was interrupted by the red flag, while he ran wide on his second effort.