Formula One: Hamilton wins with solid drive in Hungary to take over lead by 6pts over Rosberg

British driver Lewis Hamilton celebrates on the podium after winning the Hungarian Formula One Grand Prix on July 24, 2016. PHOTO: EPA PHOTO: EPA

BUDAPEST (AFP) - Defending champion Lewis Hamilton produced a trademark triumph of pace and panache to win Sunday's Hungarian Grand Prix ahead of his Mercedes team-mate Nico Rosberg and replace him as leader of this year's world title race.

Hamilton outpaced Rosberg at the start and then controlled the 70 laps with a mixture of speed and flawless judgment in sweltering heat at the Hungaroring circuit to clock 1hr 40min 30.115sec.

His victory completed a hat-trick of successes in consecutive Formula One races, was his outright record fifth in Hungary, his fifth of the season and the 48th of his career.

Rosberg, who started from pole position, came home second 1.977sec back, ahead of Daniel Ricciardo of Red Bull, four-time champion Sebastian Vettel of Ferrari and Dutch teenager Max Verstappen in the second Red Bull.

Kimi Raikkonen was sixth in the second Ferrari in front of two-time champion Fernando Alonso of McLaren and Carlos Sainz of Toro Rosso, Valtteri Bottas of Williams and Nico Hulkenberg, who was 10th for Force India.

Hamilton's win increased his points total to 192, six more than Rosberg as Ricciardo moved up to third on 115 points, one ahead of Raikkonen.

"Awesome race Lewis, mega result," said his Mercedes engineer on team radio. "Well done mate. Fantastic drive."

Hamilton responded generously. "As always, thank you guys, so much, for your hard work all weekend. This is a great result for the team," he said.

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