Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen hit unexpected roadblocks during qualifying for the Hungarian Grand Prix, sending shockwaves through the Formula 1 community.
Hamilton couldn’t even make it past Q2, a shocking result for the seven-time world champion.
Verstappen fared slightly better but still landed way back on the fourth row, starting Sunday’s race from P8.
It’s a stunning turn of events for two drivers who are usually fighting for pole position.
## Fans react to Hamilton’s early exit
Charles Leclerc surprised everyone by stealing pole position from the McLarens, making Saturday a day of upsets.
Many fans seem to understand why Hamilton might be kicking himself after his performance. The Mercedes driver appeared visibly frustrated as he climbed out of his car.
“Heartbreaking to see Lewis struggle like this,” wrote one supporter on social media.
Others expressed pure disappointment at seeing one of F1’s greatest qualifiers knocked out so early in the session.
It’s the kind of setback that can derail a race weekend before it truly begins.
## Verstappen’s struggles draw mixed reactions
Verstappen’s P8 qualification drew similar reactions from fans, though with a hint of relief that he at least made it into Q3, unlike Hamilton.
The reigning world champion was clearly unhappy with his car’s performance.
At one point, he snapped back at his race engineer Gianpiero Lambiase with “I’m not done,” when trying to explain the handling issues he was experiencing.
It was a rare glimpse of frustration from a driver who’s dominated the sport for the past two seasons.
With both champions starting well behind their rivals, Sunday’s race might deliver the kind of unpredictable action fans have been craving all season.
