Pole star Hamilton

LEWIS HAMILTON is primed to soar clear of the pack to take the lead in a Formula One title race developing into a Mercedes walkover.

Hamilton, chasing a seventh world crown, was in unstoppable form in the rain around the Hungaroring where he has won seven times in 13 starts.

His brilliant pole-placing time of 1min 13.447sec set a record for the tricky 2.722mile track, blitzing Max Verstappen’s 1:17.103 last year.

Hamilton was chased to the chequered flag by teammate Valtteri Bottas.

But every time the hardworking Finn threatened, Hamilton put his foot down and cleared off to grab his amazing 90th pole.

Hamilton trails Bottas by six points – but that looks certain to change at this Hungary Grand Prix. He said: “I have to pinch myself. 90 poles! I can’t believe it, it is quite humbling.

“I have loads of people to thank for their fantastic support and all-out effort.

“It is up to me to repay them as best I can.

“And that means not only winning races but the championship, too. And that is my aim.”

Hamilton snubbed Ferrari duo Sebastian Vettel and Charles Leclerc when sizing up his challengers. He said:

“So far as our rivals go, it is real treat to see Renault and

McLaren coming along and looking certain to be a challenge.

“McLaren, especially, have done a fantastic job. And we expect Red Bull to grow, so I anticipate the season could be a tough battle.

“But whatever happens, and judging by the results so far, it promises to be a thriller of a season.”