Hamilton critical of Mercedes: 'Could've got pole with another tyre'

In the end, Hamilton finished fourth fastest but will start in P3 because of Max Verstappen's grid penalty. However, the Brit was not happy with Mercedes' decisions during qualifying.

"I do think we could have been further up if we got the timing perfect in that last stint. We nearly didn't get through Q1 but not through true pace. It was just because they pulled me in. I came in a bit late and there was too much traffic so didn't get to do a lap. Then I only had one new set at the end. If I had another tyre at the end, I could've got pole," Hamilton told GPblog and others in Belgium.

Can Hamilton win the Belgian Grand Prix?

Mercedes have been in fine form recently, taking one podium in each of the last five races. This included two back-to-back wins. But Hamilton isn't expecting another podium finish in Belgium. "There's a slight chance we can fight for the podium but I think it's going to be really tough," Hamilton continued before acknowledging his concern about a fast Verstappen.

"There's quicker McLarens behind. Quicker Red Bull ahead and another quick Red Bull that will come through. Ferrari are just there with us in terms of performance. We were a second off yesterday. The race pace was strong for the other guys. I'm hoping the changes we made overnight put the car in a better place," Hamilton said, who feels he was aided by the wet conditions in qualifying. It is not forecast to rain in Sunday's race.