Hamilton suffers shock early US GP qualifying exit

Lewis Hamilton failed to advance out of the opening qualifying segment ahead of the United States Grand Prix.

The seven-time world champion qualified in 19th place - marking by far his worst result around the Circuit of the Americas.

Prior to his Q1 elimination on Saturday, his worst qualifying position at the circuit was fifth place, which he logged on two occasions.

Hamilton was only faster than Zhou Guanyu, who rounded out the pack at the end of Q1.

A mistake at Turn 12 cost Hamilton, who finished the sprint race in sixth place earlier in the day.

Although he qualified in 19th for the grand prix, he is set to be promoted up at least one position on Sunday due to a power unit-related grid penalty for Liam Lawson.

Hamilton did not have much to say over team radio when informed of his early exit, simply stating: “Ah, alright guys.”