Sonka had registered a first place finish in yesterday's master class free practice sessions, with his compatriot Petr Kopfstein also achieving the feat.

A track record of 57.600 seconds saw Sonka secure first place in the qualification standings today.

He was followed by reigning world champion Yoshihide Muroya, with the Japanese competitor finishing in 57.632.

The top three was rounded off by Kopfstein, who had set the early pace by clocking 57.872.

Current championship leader Matt Hall of Australia finished in fourth place.

He managed a time of 58.025.

Co-leader Michael Goulian exceeded the G-limit, with the American having to return to base, leaving him 13th on the timesheet.

Competition will conclude tomorrow.

Hungary's capital is a classic stop on the calendar having first staged an event in 2003, when the season only had two races.

Planes will speed under the historic Chain Bridge and through the race track on the river Danube.