Lewis Hamilton brushed off the detractors in the grandstands as he enjoyed his 101st Formula 1 pole position at the Hungarian Grand Prix.
The seven-time world champion flirted with both the good and dark side, producing a stunning first flying lap in Q3 to set up pole before playing a few delay tactics with both Red Bull drivers on the warm-up lap for the second attempts.
While Hamilton was the fastest qualifier in Silverstone, Saturday also represented his first official pole position since Spain and he was thrilled to be on top.
“It was an amazing qualifying lap,” he stated in Parc Ferme. “I think it’s been amazing teamwork from everyone this weekend, Valtteri [Bottas] included, just trying to push the car forwards, developing constantly.
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“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.”
The delay tactics, as well as the continued hostility after Silverstone, meant a good section of the Hungaroring crowd were heard jeering Hamilton as he gave his interview to former F1 driver Johnny Herbert.
“Honestly, I’ve never actually felt so great with the booing. If anything, it just fuels me so I don’t really mind it,” he said despite Herbert’s attempt to stop it.
While pole obviously gives Hamilton the all-important track position, keeping it at the start might be a different story as both Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez will start on the soft compound versus the Mercedes’ on mediums.
“I think the soft tyre is worth something like five metres down into Turn 1. It’s a long way down to Turn 1,” Hamilton noted.
“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.”