Hamilton looks to pressure Antonelli in 2026 title race at Hungary
Lewis Hamilton sits second in the 2026 Drivers Championship, 45 points behind Kimi Antonelli. Ferrari showed strong pace in Hungary practice sessions, giving Hamilton an opportunity to close the gap on the championship leader ahead of the race.
Championship context
Lewis Hamilton enters the 2026 Hungarian Grand Prix 45 points behind championship leader Kimi Antonelli in the Drivers Championship.[1][2] The Ferrari driver sits second overall, with Mercedes driver Antonelli holding the advantage after recent rounds.
Practice performance
Ferrari displayed competitive pace during Friday and Saturday sessions at the Hungaroring.[3] Hamilton topped FP2 and placed second in FP3, with the team ahead of Mercedes in several runs. Antonelli finished third in FP3 behind Norris and Hamilton.
Title implications
Race outlook
The Hungaroring layout often rewards strong qualifying and race pace management. Both Ferrari and Mercedes have shown they can compete at the front in 2026, setting up a direct contest between the title protagonists.
Related reading
- [1]Hungarian GP: Why Budapest could ignite Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari title fight against Kimi Antonelli (skysports). Accessed 2026-07-25.
- [2]Hamilton 'more focused than ever' amid 2026 title push (formula1). Accessed 2026-07-25.
- [3]FP3: Norris edges out Hamilton and Antonelli during tight final practice session in Hungary (formula1). Accessed 2026-07-25.