Max Verstappen practically already has the world title in his pocket. And he drives like a champ too. Whoever wins from tenth on the grid at the Hungaroring deserves 25 points and the top mark.
Max Verstappen could miss three races and Charles Leclerc could win those three races with the fastest lap and the world champion would still be ahead. The eighth win of the season was a milestone for Verstappen. No other driver can now become world champion on his own. And the Dutchman has really earned this cushion.
The Red Bull driver drove brilliantly. A problem with the MGU-K had relegated him to 10th place on the grid. But defects or spins, as later in the race, do not have a negative effect on Verstappen. He still wins the Grand Prix. Leclerc is severely punished for every technical problem and every slip-up. Verstappen won the Hungarian GP despite a hopeless starting position with eight overtaking maneuvers, a lot of overview, good tire management and the necessary calm. A victory that was actually impossible. And a real champion who gets the grade 10 again.
Mercedes driver with great moments
Charles Leclerc, on the other hand, is let down by Ferrari. For some unknown reason, the fastest car was no longer the fastest car on Sunday. Neither the timing of the pit stops nor the choice of hard tires fitted. The third stop was an act of desperation and cost Leclerc at least two, maybe four points. In terms of driving, the World Championship runner-up had almost nothing to reproach himself for. He gets the grade 9.
The Mercedes drivers go on the summer break with the same grade. Lewis Hamilton had his misfire in Q3 when he retired after a DRS problem without trying hard for the rest of the lap where DRS is not needed. He could have started two places further up. George Russell's moment of glory came on Saturday with his first pole position. In order to defend his lead, Mercedes had to get him into the pits early on. That led to high tire wear in the last stint.
Driver's ratings GP Hungary
Here are the driver's ratings for the Grand Prix in Budapest at a glance. As always, you can find the detailed individual reviews of all 20 drivers in the gallery.
