Hamilton is set to start the race in 12th, having failed to improve on his second run in Q2. His first effort on used tyres was solid, but a mistake at turn one on the fresh rubber may have cost him.

Having started the Sprint in P7, Hamilton took charge of his Ferrari strategy by pitting early for soft tyres on a drying track. The gamble paid off as he climbed to P3.

11Isack HadjarRacing Bulls1:26.987

12Lewis HamiltonFerrari1:27.006

13Gabriel BortoletoSauber1:27.151

14Jack DoohanAlpine1:27.186

15Liam LawsonRacing Bulls1:27.363

Out in Q2 at the Miami Grand Prix

That generated some much-needed positivity for the seven-time world champion. But that may dissipate after another setback, one that may severely limit his ceiling for Sunday’s race.

Speaking before the session on Sky Sports, Hamilton’s former teammate Jenson Button noted his ‘calm personality’. He’s now the second-oldest driver on the grid at 40 behind Fernando Alonso.

During his McLaren days, Hamilton was apparently more volatile. But he was most dangerous when his mood was lowest.