Lewis Hamilton now hopeful on Formula 1 title chances

Hamilton's own victory hopes were dashed by a tyre blow-out while leading, but the fact that he could stage a fight back to fourth, allied to Rosberg holding on at the front, showed that Mercedes has made a huge step forward with its degradation issues.

And although Hamilton is still 43 points adrift of leader Sebastian Vettel in the standings, he thinks that the team is now able to put pressure on Red Bull.

"While there was all this talk about tyres and everything, there are massive positives to take out of this weekend," said Hamilton after the British Grand Prix.

"The team and Nico won, and we got some good points. We are second in the constructors' championship now, which is a real big plus.

"I am grateful I could come back through the field and get the points that I did, because I am now 43 points off Sebastian and we have a good car.

"We are improving. Just look at the improvements we have made for tyre degradation."

When asked if he believed he could actually win the title, Hamilton said: "I am just trying to stay within shooting distance and stay within the fight. That is all I am focusing on at the moment."

Hamilton has yet to win a race this year, but with Mercedes' form having stepped up recently he is convinced his moment will come soon.

"I look forward to the next races and I hope we can do something positive. I am sure at some stage my time will come."