Hamilton says Webber cost him pole

The McLaren driver was locked into a thrilling battle with teammate Fernando Alonso for the top spot throughout the three sessions, and in the end was beaten by less than two tenths of a second.

And the Briton felt that he lost that crucial amount of time getting stuck behind Webber near the start of the lap.

"My lap was really on the limit," said Hamilton. "I think I touched the barriers on the exit of turn four.

"I was three tenths (of a second) up and I got held up by Webber. I don't know if he saw me, but he didn't let me past until turn eight so I lost half a second. I still managed to pull it back but the tyres were past their best."

Although Alonso's pole position automatically installs him as favourite for victory tomorrow, the fact that both McLaren drivers are on different strategies could yet lead to a fierce battle for victory.

Hamilton said: "This is an awesome track, my favourite, and to know you are brushing the barriers is amazing. You wouldn't believe how quick it is, there isn't much room, and to be here in my first Grand Prix is fantastic. Tomorrow is going to be interesting."