GT driver Renger van der Zande has voiced criticism regarding Lewis Hamilton’s performance following Max Verstappen’s overtake at the Hungarian Grand Prix. Van der Zande stated that ‘older drivers make mistakes’ and that Verstappen ‘checkmated’ Hamilton during the race.
The incident occurred on Lap 16 of the Hungarian Grand Prix, held on July 26, 2026, at the Hungaroring. Verstappen executed a late-braking manoeuvre into Turn 1 to pass Hamilton.
Hamilton, driving for Ferrari, admitted over team radio that he ‘couldn’t see him coming, guys’ after Verstappen’s move. He later apologised to his team, stating, ‘Sorry to lose that position, man’.
Verstappen’s overtake allowed him to reclaim a podium position. He finished the race in second place for Red Bull Racing, despite reporting car balance issues throughout the weekend.
Hamilton ultimately finished fifth in Budapest. His race was further complicated by a five-second time penalty for speeding in the pit lane.
The penalty demoted Hamilton from an initial fourth-place finish, placing him behind his Ferrari teammate Charles Leclerc.
Verstappen commented on the overtake, suggesting Hamilton ‘was not really paying attention’. He noted the move was risky but successful.
Van der Zande has previously questioned Hamilton’s driving and momentum, particularly concerning age, in earlier seasons.
The 2026 Formula 1 season has seen ongoing discussions regarding the new power unit regulations. Both Hamilton and Verstappen have expressed concerns about their impact on racing.
Verstappen has been vocal about the challenges presented by the 2026 regulations, which he believes reduce a driver’s ability to make a significant difference.
Hamilton also criticised the 2026 regulations earlier this season, particularly after qualifying at the Belgian Grand Prix. [cite: 10 from previous search]
The Hungarian Grand Prix was won by Lando Norris for McLaren. Kimi Antonelli secured third place for Mercedes.
