Spectacular Leclerc Takes Shock Hungarian GP Pole Ahead of Piastri and Norris

Leclerc Stuns Field with Surprise Pole at Hungarian Grand Prix

Charles Leclerc pulled off one of the most dramatic pole positions of the season at the 2025 Hungarian Grand Prix, beating both Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris in a tightly contested qualifying session.

The Ferrari driver clocked a brilliant lap in changing conditions to edge out McLaren’s Piastri by just 0.026 seconds, with Norris a further 0.015 seconds behind. Leclerc’s final-lap heroics came after a weekend where Ferrari had largely struggled for pace.

“Mamma mia,” Leclerc exclaimed upon learning he had taken pole. “I have no words. It’s probably one of the best pole positions I’ve ever had – I did not expect that.”

Top 10 Qualifying Results – Hungarian GP 2025

Charles Leclerc (Ferrari)
Oscar Piastri (McLaren) +0.026s
Lando Norris (McLaren) +0.041s
George Russell (Mercedes)
Fernando Alonso (Aston Martin)
Lance Stroll (Aston Martin)
Gabriel Bortoleto (Sauber)
Max Verstappen (Red Bull)
Yuki Tsunoda (Racing Bulls)
Carlos Sainz (Williams)

Hamilton Out in Q2, Verstappen Off the Pace

While Leclerc celebrated an unlikely pole, his team-mate Lewis Hamilton suffered another frustrating Saturday, qualifying 12th after missing Q3 by just 0.015 seconds.

“I’m just useless. I drove terribly,” a disheartened Hamilton said post-session.

Max Verstappen, meanwhile, continued to struggle throughout the weekend. The championship leader could only manage eighth, complaining of poor grip and balance.

“It’s a bit of a mystery. No grip in the front or rear — just off the pace all weekend,” said Verstappen.

Aston Martin Bounce Back, McLaren Surprised

After a dismal outing at Spa, Aston Martin bounced back impressively, with Alonso and Stroll securing fifth and sixth. The team benefitted from upgrades and the tight nature of the Hungaroring circuit.

McLaren looked set to lock out the front row until a sudden wind shift in Q3 disrupted their rhythm.

“The wind did a 180,” said Piastri. “Difficult to judge. I wasn’t expecting to be second to a Ferrari.”

Norris added: “Charles risked more. We thought our laps were good – but we were just slow.”

What to Expect on Race Day

Leclerc will be under pressure from both McLarens, who have shown stronger race pace throughout the season. With Oscar Piastri leading Lando Norris by 16 points in the championship, Sunday’s race could have major title implications.

Rain is in the forecast, and as always at the Hungaroring, track position will be crucial. Expect strategy, tire management, and weather to play key roles in the outcome.