Lewis Hamilton has admitted on social media that it is "extremely frustrating" to have come so close to Hungarian Grand Prix pole, only to be starting from fifth following a grid penalty.
The seven-time world champion was one of the favourites for pole going into qualifying at the Hungaroring but was beaten by Lando Norris, who clinched it by just 0.012s.
It was an agonising defeat for Hamilton, who was hoping to secure a 10th pole at the Hungarian Grand Prix. No driver has ever qualified on pole 10 times at a single circuit.
Unfortunately, the seven-time world champion will not even start from the front row after receiving a three-place grid penalty for impeding Oscar Piastri.
The Briton impeded Piastri at the start of the McLaren driver's final lap in qualifying, compromising the Australian's result. It means Hamilton has been penalised in each of the last three grands prix.
After qualifying, Hamilton took to social media to vent his frustration but stressed his confidence in still managing a good result from fifth on the grid.
"Sometimes you just can’t catch a break," Hamilton wrote on Instagram. "Another weekend when I’ve been feeling great throughout all the sessions, but then it just falls apart. To go from being so close to pole to then starting P5 is extremely frustrating.
"I always do my best to keep positive — sport is always about the highs and lows, but it’s also in the margins. Every point counts and you have to seize every opportunity. After 3 penalties in 3 weekends, it’s becoming difficult to hang on to that positivity.
"Still, I won’t let the setbacks take away from the progress we’ve been making as a team. With the pace we have, I’m hopeful we can get something out of the race tomorrow. The car has been feeling better and better, and we’ve been competitive all weekend.
"We’ll keep working hard together to give ourselves the best possible chance. I always enjoy this track, so keep the faith and send good vibes for the race."
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