Lewis Hamilton sets fresh target for 'good end' to torrid Ferrari campaign

Lewis Hamilton has set his sights on aiding Ferrari's push to second place in the constructors' championship, stating it would be a “good end” to a difficult season.

Hamilton departed Mercedes and joined Ferrari at the start of the year, commencing a new career chapter with the Italian squad.

However, it has so far not yielded particularly successful results as the seven-time champion is still seeking his first podium finish in red.

Ferrari currently sit third in the standings, behind Mercedes and ahead of Red Bull. However, just 10 points separate the three squads, while runaway leaders McLaren secured the title in Singapore.

Hamilton is still hoping he can get his hands on a podium trophy before the year is out, but signalled his desire to ensure Ferrari beats its rivals to second place in the standings.

“I would say consistency, or even get a podium at some point,” Hamilton told media including RacingNews365 when asked about his hope for the final five races.

“Finish ahead of Mercedes as well, if I can help the team secure second in the constructors’ [championship], that would be a good end to the year.”

The battle between the three teams in the US saw Mercedes have less pace than Red Bull and Ferrari, allowing its rivals to close the gap.

Hamilton admitted confusion over the downturn in form for Mercedes, which occurred just two weeks after it emerged victorious at the Singapore Grand Prix.

“It’s really difficult,” Hamilton said. “Mercedes won the last race, and this race, they were behind us.

“It’s really difficult to know why that is, and why there are swings and roundabouts.

“I’m really just hoping that our car is better next week.”