Lewis Hamilton admits Mercedes are dependent on drier conditions after opting for less downforce for the Belgian Grand Prix.
The seven-time world champion appeared on course for pole after an impressive first lap after the red flag caused by a big crash for Lando Norris at Eau Rouge as the rain returned in Q3.
But Hamilton would ultimately slip to third on the grid behind Max Verstappen and, shockingly, George Russell in the Williams.
“It’s been a very difficult day for everyone. I just tried to stay positive, focused and calm,” he said in Parc Ferme post-session.
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“My first lap was really good, the second one I struggled a little bit. Well done to Max, he did a great job right at the end. Also a great job by George [Russell in P2], that’s fantastic.”
Hamilton was among the quicker cars on the straights during qualifying, proving that Mercedes have opted for less wing on the straights than some of their rivals.
But for that approach to work, Lewis admits the weather has to co-operate.
“If it is like this tomorrow it is going to be tricky,” he conceded. “There is this balance of straight-line speed against that mid-section downforce.
“We tried to find the best balance possible and maybe it is not the best for today but we will see tomorrow exactly how good it is.
“Otherwise, I am grateful for the team for keeping their cool and tomorrow is another day. Hopefully, we have better weather.”
Also, Hamilton likely cannot rely on teammate Valtteri Bottas for assistance either against Verstappen, with the Finn starting P12 after his grid penalty.
“I don’t really know what happened with Valtteri but unfortunate because I think Sergio Perez is not too far away,” he said.
“That is going to make it a little bit harder in terms of strategy because I think Valtteri has a penalty also.
“We will do everything we can and as I said, tomorrow is another day. I hope it is not crazy rain like this but interchangeable could be fun.”