Lewis Hamilton casts bleak Ferrari prediction as struggles continue

Lewis Hamilton believes it will be a “challenge” to progress into the Q3 shootout during qualifying for the Canadian Grand Prix.

Hamilton has twice failed to partake in the final session of qualifying this year with Ferrari, with the Italian team unable to consistently compete at the front of the field.

The seven-time champion drove to the eighth fastest time during FP2 in Montreal, but fared better than team-mate Charles Leclerc, who failed to set a time after cracking his chassis in an FP1 crash.

The Circuit Gilles Villeneuve sits as one of Hamilton's favoured circuits, having won the Canadian GP a record-equaling seven times.

However, the 40-year-old conceded his chances of adding an eighth win are slim after a rough experience during Friday practice.

“Not great, not particularly great,” Hamilton said when asked to sum up his day. 

“I love driving here and the crowd’s been amazing today, but the car is a lot different to what I’ve experienced here in the past.”

Hamilton indicated he was more comfortable behind the wheel during the opening session when he clocked the fifth fastest time.

However, the car became more difficult as the day progressed, leaving him to place low expectations for the remainder of the weekend.

“I think FP1 was alright, then we made some changes,” he stated. 

“Honestly, I thought the car was quicker, and we just went slower, or they [our rivals] went quicker. I don’t know [what’s possible].

“I think it will be a challenge to get into Q3 at this rate, but not impossible. Then I think trying to fight to get into the top five is going to be tough.”