After smashing his car in Saturday's third free practice at the exit of Fagnes, Lewis Hamilton qualified just 0.002s behind Ferrari team‑mate Charles Leclerc at Spa‑Francorchamps. The 7‑time champion praised the Maranello crew for rebuilding the car between FP3 and qualifying but said the extensive repairs left the rear end out of balance Crowing.

Leclerc’s qualifying was hampered by an erroneously displayed yellow flag while he tried to overtake a struggling George Russell. Hamilton, however, felt he had missed a chance to push higher, noting the subtle set‑up change that tilted the car and cost him one or two tenths per lap.

He explained that the SF‑26’s specification didn’t change, yet the rushed repair caused a rear‑suspension difference that altered his balance. "I think something wasn’t the same on the rear suspension," he said, adding he was still hopeful for a podium.

When asked if the half‑second deficit to polesitter Kimi Antonelli was due to the power unit, Hamilton replied he.possibly lost time in the last sector but had no overlay data to confirm.

Hamilton remains upbeat, citing a "great" car feel over the weekend and optimism for the race.