Mercedes drivers fastest in Hungarian GP practice

BUDAPEST, Hungary — Lewis Hamilton posted the fastest time in the first practice session of the Hungarian Grand Prix on Friday, out-pacing teammate Nico Rosberg and extending the dominance of the Mercedes team.

Hamilton's best lap was timed at 1 minute, 25.814 seconds, 0.183 seconds faster than Rosberg. The Mercedes drivers, who have won nice of the 10 races so far this season, were the only ones finishing below 1:26. Kimi Raikkonen and Fernando Alonso of Ferrari were next.

Gaining pole position for Sunday's race is considered a huge plus on the twisting Hungaroring circuit, where passing opportunities are very limited. Hamilton is looking to win his third race in a row and his fifth overall on this track. He has started from the top spot on the grid four times in Hungary.