Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton said Mercedes’ form in Hungary on Sunday had fuelled his hopes of a first Formula One win of the season when he returns from the August break.

The Briton finished second ahead of teammate George Russell, with the pair chalking up their second successive double podium.

The latest in a string of encouraging performances followed a first pole position for Russell on Saturday, also Mercedes’ first since last year’s penultimate Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.

“If we are able to take this pace into the second half of the season, for sure we can start to fight with the guys,” Hamilton told reporters, saying second place behind Red Bull winner Max Verstappen was “hugely satisfying”.

“This is the first time we’ve been able to fight and battle with the Ferrari. That’s huge for us,” said the 37-year-old, adding Mercedes could have won had both cars started near the front. “I think this weekend there was a potential for the win,” he said.