"To be honest I did an almost perfect lap but it wasn't enough," said Massa, who is second in the Drivers' standings, six points behind Hamilton.

"Sometimes you do a great lap and are still missing something. I think in qualifying they showed a better performance than us and we need to understand why.

"We don't know how the fuel loads work out from McLaren, but I think they were quick through all three sessions which is a sign that they are strong here."

He added: "The race is long and starting from the front row is very important so lets try to have a good race tomorrow.

"The car feels good and the balance is there, we just need to pick up some more speed to find a couple of tenths to be ahead of them.

"It wasn't there today but hopefully tomorrow we can do it." 

60% Better Betting Odds at Pinnaclesports.com - Bet now!