Hamilton apologises to Raikkonen

Hamilton was coming out of the pits following his last tyre change in the closing moments of qualifying, just as Raikkonen was on his final flying lap.

The McLaren driver was seen slowing down off the racing line as the Ferrari powered past him, but Raikkonen went wide and lost crucial time in the process, eventually qualifying in third behind Hamilton.

Asked about the incident, Raikkonen stated: "For sure it didn't help. I ran wide after I went beside him and lost some time.

"I don't know exactly [how much time] we lost - I haven't seen the data - but for sure there could have been a slightly easier way to let me past.

But it is what it is now. I would rather be in the front, but third is an OK place to start the race from. We should have a good car and see what we can do tomorrow."

Hamilton himself said he was warned by the team of Raikkonen's presence and did the best he could to get out of his way.

"I came out of the pitlane, and the team said 'you will be coming close to Kimi, at that speed your mirrors are vibrating and you can't see'.

"I apologise if I got in his way, but I didn't think he was that close to me. I stayed where I was and braked. I didn't feel I hindered his lap, and I did get out of the way.

"I did the best job I could do," added Hamilton. "And I did apologise to him."