Hamilton says he can challenge Red Bull

The 24-year-old Briton, who has put up a dismal defence of his world title so far this season with an off-the-pace car, equalled his best grid spot of the year in a rain-affected session.

But, after topping the timesheets in two of the three dry practice sessions, he wants more consistent conditions on Sunday, and believes he can challenge the pole-sitting Red Bull of Mark Webber for a top three finish.

"If it stays dry tomorrow then we'll definitely be in a good position and we can shoot for the podium for sure," said Hamilton. "We could fight the Red Bulls even. I think it will probably be wet though.

Hamilton's team-mate Heikki Kovalainen qualified sixth - the first time this season that both McLarens have made it into Q3.

And the Briton praised the work of his team in the weeks since the last race for improving the pace of the MP4-24.

"For Heikki and I to be in the top 10 is a great result and that's all down to the work done back at the factory. It's made a huge difference," he added.