Budapest, Aug 5 (IANS): British Formula One (F1) driver Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes) earned a thrilling triumph at the Hungary Grand Prix (GP), ahead of Dutch racer Max Verstappen (Red Bull Racing).

Being the driver with most wins in Hungary, Hamilton managed to claim a record-extending seventh victory at the Hungaroring circuit, in the outskirts of capital Budapest, thanks to the strategy of his Mercedes team's officials on Sunday, reports Efe news.

"Sorry I doubted the strategy, that was a tall order but grateful we did it," Hamilton said through the team radio following the win.

"I feel really grateful, for the team, for believing in me, taking a risk and chance on me. To be able to push like that, I was on the limit all the way," the Briton stated.

Following his eighth win into the season so far, Hamilton extended his overall lead, getting a step closer to his sixth world championship, ahead of the three-week F1 summer vacation.

As for Verstappen, he was in the lead for the most of the 70-lap race, but a fall-off of his single-seated car's tires forced him to enter the pit, allowing Hamilton to snatch the late win.

The Dutchman started the 12th GP of the season from pole position, his first ever in his career as a pro.

Following the summer break, the F1 season is set to be resumed with the Belgian GP scheduled from August 30 to September 1.