Yellow flags deny Hamilton pole challenge

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Lewis Hamilton will line up alongside team mate and poleman Nico Rosberg for tomorrow's Hungarian Grand Prix.

The Mercedes driver held provisional pole in the early part of Q3 and looked all set to deliver the goods when he was forced to back off when he entered a yellow flag zone brought about when Fernando Alonso spun his McLaren at Turn 9.

Rosberg was following the defending world champion on the road but while he lifted somewhat to comply with the yellow zone, he still succeeded in topping the time sheets overall.

Speaking about his ultimate run, Hamilton felt confident of securing pole without Alonso's spin.

"I was fastest in the first sector, so I felt good on the lap and was a bit unfortunate with Fernando, but these things happen," explained an untroubled Hamilton.

"I'm not really too disappointed, it was a really tricky session and I did the best I could do. We still have a long race ahead of us tomorrow, so I'll give very thing I've got from there."

Post-qualifying was marked by questions over Rosberg's speed through the 'yellow zone' and whether he had lifted enough to factor in enough caution. But stewards had yet to provide any indication of a formal investigation.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.