Belgian GP: Nico Rosberg pessimistic about race as Mercedes struggles

Even though his team-mate Michael Schumacher came from the back of the grid to finish fifth at Spa last year, Rosberg believes it will be much harder to make such an impact this time around from his 23rd place on the grid.

"It will be easier for me to overtake, that is for sure," said Rosberg, when asked by AUTOSPORT about his realistic hopes of a recovery drive. "With a good start, some luck, and good strategy, the aim has to be to get a point, but it is difficult.

"Not only am I far behind, but we are also just not quick enough over the weekend. I will try for sure though.

"If I get lucky with a safety car and everything, then things are possible - but the problem is that our car is not as fast as last year at this track at the moment.

"Last year we were quicker and that is the main issue, which is why it is going to be more difficult."

Team principal Ross Brawn believes that Mercedes has to make the most of any opportunities that come its way.

"It is always eventful racing here and last year we had a safety car that came out at a very opportune time for us," he said. "So we will be looking to take the benefit we can out of any of those sorts of events.

"How you are able to use the tyres over a longer run will be very important, and what drivers have been able to do in qualifying won't necessarily translate to what they are able to do in a race.

"In a race it is more consistent conditions with tyre temperatures built up, so we are optimistic. Michael has a history of being able to have good races in these circumstances, particularly here, and we are optimistic he can do it.

"Nico needs a bit more time in the car here, but after a few laps I am sure he will settle in and will be looking to take advantage of any situations that develop."