I’m Just Useless, Says Hamilton After Teammate’s Shock Pole
Hamilton’s Struggles Deepen in Hungary
Lewis Hamilton didn’t hold back in his self-assessment after a dismal qualifying session at the Hungarian Grand Prix. The seven-time world champion, who has built a career on precision and speed, was uncharacteristically blunt: I’m just useless. His frustration was evident after failing to make it into Q3 while his Ferrari teammate, Charles Leclerc, clinched a stunning pole position.
Hamilton limped to a disappointing 12th on the grid, trailing Leclerc by 0.247 seconds in Q2. For a driver of his pedigree, missing the top 10 at a circuit he has historically dominated was a bitter pill to swallow. It’s nothing to do with the car, he admitted. I drove terribly. It is what it is.
This latest setback extends a troubling trend for the British driver. In 2025, he now trails Leclerc 12-5 in their qualifying battles, with the Monegasque holding an average advantage of 0.146 seconds. While Hamilton showed glimpses of resurgence in recent races, his struggles against former Mercedes teammate George Russell and now Leclerc have raised questions about his current form.
Last weekend’s double Q1 elimination in Belgium only compounded his frustrations. Hungary, a track where Hamilton has historically thrived, was meant to be a turning point—instead, it became another chapter in an increasingly difficult season.
Leclerc Secures Surprise Pole Against the Odds
While Hamilton wrestled with his demons, Ferrari had reason to celebrate. Charles Leclerc defied expectations to claim his first pole position of the season—an achievement he called perhaps the most surprising of my career.
What made the feat even more remarkable was his pre-weekend admission: he had never felt entirely comfortable racing at the Hungaroring. McLaren had dominated practice sessions, making Ferrari’s sudden leap forward even more unexpected.
However, shifting weather conditions in Q3 turned the tables. A dramatic 180-degree wind shift, coupled with fluctuating temperatures and humidity, threw McLaren off balance. Leclerc seized the opportunity, delivering a flawless lap to snatch pole by 0.085 seconds over Oscar Piastri.
The car felt bad all through qualifying, so I really didn’t understand, Leclerc admitted. But the conditions changed for everyone, and I just did a clean lap when it counted.
Ferrari’s recent technical upgrades—including a revised rear suspension and floor—also played a crucial role. Leclerc noted that the adjustments improved the car’s predictability, allowing him to push harder without fearing costly mistakes.
Can Leclerc Turn Pole into Victory?
Securing pole is only half the battle. Converting it into a race win is another challenge—especially against McLaren, who have demonstrated superior long-run pace this season.
Leclerc remains cautiously optimistic. If it’s wet, overtaking becomes easier, but starting first here is always an advantage, he said. Rain forecasts add an unpredictable element, potentially opening the door for strategic gambles.
Piastri, who starts second, called the qualifying result bizarre and frustrating but remains confident in McLaren’s race-day performance. Meanwhile, Lando Norris identified Leclerc as their primary threat. Our main competitor has been Charles lately, Norris admitted. If anyone was going to spoil our day, it was him.
Hamilton’s Uphill Battle for Redemption
As Leclerc enjoys the spotlight, Hamilton faces a daunting recovery drive from 12th. Known for his racecraft, the British veteran will rely on strategy, tire management, and possible weather chaos to claw his way into contention. The Hungaroring’s tight, twisty layout makes overtaking difficult, but a determined Hamilton has pulled off miracles before.
Despite his struggles, Hamilton found a silver lining, praising Ferrari’s progress. It’s amazing for the team that the car is capable of pole, he said. Big congrats to Charles.
Conclusion: A Weekend of Contrasts for Ferrari
Hamilton’s self-deprecating I’m just useless remark highlights the ruthless highs and lows of Formula 1. For Leclerc, Hungary’s pole marks a well-earned breakthrough after early-season struggles.
As Sunday’s race looms, one thing is certain: the Hungarian Grand Prix promises drama. Whether it’s Hamilton fighting furiously through the midfield or Leclerc defending against McLaren’s relentless charge, fans can expect twists and turns that define F1 at its best.
In a sport where fortunes shift in an instant, Hungary serves as a reminder—no one, not even a seven-time champion, is immune to its unpredictability.
