Because things can't stay the same in F1, their were new tyre regulations for Qualifying. Hard tyres must be worn in the first session, medium in the second and soft in the third.
It was also very hot in Hungary and this was going to affect how the cars run. Out in the first session was Albon, Tsunoda, Russell (both a victim and a cause of traffic), Magnussen (new baby, sleepless nights) and Sargeant (a very shoddy lap). This meant that Toto did some fist-banging and Ricciardo would definitely out-qualify his team mate at his first race back.
In the next session, LeClerc knocked his team mate out of Qualifying. The story of dominant team mates continued with Ocon ahead of nowhere man Gasly, Alonso was through and Stroll out in 14th and Ricciardo out at last in 13th but still several places ahead of Tsunoda.
Perez had made it through to the final Qualifying session for the first time in ages and, with Ricciardo potentially now nipping at his heels, needed a good result. Hamilton could not believe it as he took pole (throwing shade on Russell) ahead of Verstappen. Has the Dutchman been taking fore-granted his premier position this season? Norris (who was disappointed) and Piastri were on the next row. Then Zhou (for once ahead of his team mate) and LeClerc (ouch for Ferrari), then Bottas and Alonso (Aston Martin have lost their early promise), then Perez and Hulkenberg. Is 9th position enough for the Mexican to prove himself? Surely, he will scythe through the grid tomorrow, however, apart from the Alpha Romeos, I think it will be trickier with some contenders who are bringing significant upgrades every event.
Did the change in tyre rules make a difference? I don't think so. Perhaps Williams could have thrown on some softs and got higher up the grid. If anything I think this rule change benefits the stronger teams. I'm sure Verstappen will win the race but there is a very tasty battle for 2nd.
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