Lewis Hamilton sets fresh F1 goal as painful Ferrari season nears end

Lewis Hamilton has declared his primary aim for the remainder of the F1 season is to “have fun” following another setback.

Hamilton was eliminated from the second segment of sprint qualifying on Friday in Brazil, leaving him with a starting position of 11th.

However, the seven-time champion is under investigation for a potential yellow flag infringement after coming across team-mate Charles Leclerc, who had spun on his final lap of the session.

Hamilton failed to make it to the line in time to start another lap, adding another painful moment to a disappointing maiden season with Ferrari.

When asked if Leclerc's spin made his life more difficult, Hamilton said: “It definitely didn't help. 

“But ay, ay, ay. It’s not for the lack of trying.

“The team thought we were a lot faster than we are. I  gave it everything, and that's ultimately what matters most. We just were not quick enough.

“I’m 11th, so just have to have some fun from there. I think at this point, it’s about having fun. It’s not going well on my side this year. I just have to enjoy wherever I am.”

Hamilton appeared to be making progress at recent rounds, starting each of last three grands prix inside the top six.

In Mexico two weeks ago, he claimed third on the grid - his highest qualifying effort of the season.

However, the 40-year-old suggested it is difficult to claim he is on an upward trend having missed out on a spot in the top 10 for the sprint race.

“It’s hard to say that when you’re out in Q2, but we’re working hard,” he said. “There’s not much more we can do.”