WATCH: Weirdest race start in F1 history ft. Lewis Hamilton during Hungarian Grand Prix 2021

As we inch closer towards the Hungarian Grand Prix 2024 fans are eagerly waiting to witness Lewis Hamilton defending his last-round victory. Hungarian GP has been one of the most dominating tracks for Hamilton as he has made history here.

One of the most iconic incidents happened in 2021 when the F1 world witnessed one of the most bizarre moments in Formula 1 history. It happened when Lewis Hamilton found himself alone on the starting grid.

Here is the video:

"Lights out and away we go, for Lewis Hamilton ONLY" 😨

Unique. Chaotic. Iconic. That race restart at the Hungaroring in 2021#F1 #HunagrianGP pic.twitter.com/o2cngcctMK

— Formula 1 (@F1) July 17, 2024

As the lights went out, the seven-time world champion raced towards Turn 1, with the rest of the field missing from the grid. This unprecedented scenario unfolded under a perfect storm of circumstances, creating a spectacle that left fans and commentators in shock.

The prelude to this strange event began with a sudden downpour. All 20 cars had completed their reconnaissance laps on a dry track, but rain fell just before the start. As a result, every car is fitted with intermediate tyres.

When the race commenced, the wet conditions led to multiple pile-ups, taking out four cars instantly and damaging others, including Max Verstappen's Red Bull. The race was red-flagged, and the remaining 16 cars returned to the pits for repairs and potentially new tyres.

Mercedes's bizarre strategy failed Hamilton!

During the stoppage, the track began to dry out rapidly under the Hungarian sun. While the grid prepared for a restart, all teams, except Mercedes, decided to switch to slick tyres. As the formation lap began, a flurry of radio messages saw every car except Hamilton dive into the pits. This decision left Hamilton isolated on the grid, a solitary figure on intermediate tyres while the rest of the field changed to slicks.

Also Check: Hungarian Grand Prix 2024 Weather Report

Hamilton’s lone start was surreal. The reigning champion, in an unusual sight, accelerated from the grid alone as the lights went out. Meanwhile, the remaining 15 cars emerged from the pit lane, jostling for position. In hindsight, Hamilton’s decision not to pit proved costly.

Completing a lap on intermediates before switching to slicks dropped him to the back of the field, turning his race into a challenging climb through the pack. Despite a valiant effort, Hamilton finished third, later promoted to second following Sebastian Vettel's disqualification.

What would have happened if Hamilton had pitted too?

This peculiar restart also highlighted logistical challenges. Had Hamilton pitted with the others, the congestion and potential pit lane collisions could have been detrimental. The first garage position of Mercedes would have made it difficult for Hamilton to rejoin the race in a favourable position.

The incident prompted discussions on future procedural adjustments. FIA race director Michael Masi indicated a review to ensure clarity in such unique situations, emphasizing the need for preparedness in unpredictable circumstances.