Both Mercedes hit problems in Monaco Q3

Though they eventually managed to qualify second and third behind Daniel Ricciardo's Red Bull, the champion team's drivers both lost time at the start of Q3 in Monte Carlo.

Rosberg was late out of the garage to start his first run, while Hamilton had to park his car at the pit exit and get pulled back to the garage by his crew.

It was the third time in the last four grands prix that Hamilton had encountered a technical problem in Q3.

"It was a difficult qualifying, I don't really know what to say," said Hamilton.

"I did get out to get a lap, it was not as bad as some have been with respect of engine problems.

"Pole was there for the taking."

The world champion believes a win from third on the grid is unlikely unless the weather changes, especially as poleman Ricciardo could run a long first stint on super-softs while the Mercedes are on ultra-softs during to their respective Q2 choices.

"I'll do what I can in the race to salvage what I can from today's result," said Hamilton.

"If the car keeps going I'll be fighting as hard as I can with these guys.

"You can't overtake here. Daniel is on a potentially better strategy than we'll be on.

"Hopefully it rains, that'll be pretty amazing."