BUDAPEST, Hungary (AP): McLaren's Lewis Hamilton continued a string of dominating performances by leading yesterday's practice sessions for the Hungarian Grand Prix.

The Formula One championship leader, who is coming off victories at the British and German GPs, led the 20-car field with a best lap time of 1 minute, 20.554 seconds across two 90-minute sessions on the 4.381-kilometer (2.722-mile) Hungaroring track.

The 23-year-old Hamilton, who won from pole position here last year, could become the first Briton since Damon Hill 12 years ago to win three straight GPs.

"I've never seen myself as favourite. Tomorrow is another day and we'll definitely be competitive," Hamilton said. "We definitely have the pace to attack and go for the win. Hopefully the weather is this good."

Renault's Nelson Piquet Jr. followed up his first podium at Hockenheim with the second fastest lap of 1:20.748 before skidding off the track to end his day.

Hamilton's teammate Heikki Kovalainen, who announced yesterday that he will remain at the British team next season, was about two-tenths of a second behind Hamilton in third, ahead of two-time world champion Fernando Alonso of Renault.