The German car manufacturer had come into the weekend thinking it likely that Hamilton will take a fresh power unit to ensure he has enough components to get through the remainder of the campaign.

The team had numerous options open to it to ensure the maximum return for any penalty, and it is understood to be considering further changes prior to qualifying.

For the start of first free practice at Spa-Francorchamps, Mercedes confirmed that both Rosberg and Hamilton would be fitted with new components.

Rosberg is still under the number of parts allowed for the campaign, but the change means that Hamilton has moved on to his sixth MGU-H and his sixth turbocharger – which will mean a 15-place grid penalty for now.

Mercedes could still make further engine changes ahead of qualifying to get more components into Hamilton's pool, which could mean further grid penalties.