The 40-year-old is a massive 90 points adrift of championship leader Oscar Piastri after six races while Ferrari, who were expected to contend for the title this season, are 152 points behind McLaren. Hamilton had spoken of excitement and expectation ahead of his first race weekend for Ferrari in Italy but was left with bitter disappointment.

After a tumultuous Q1 session that saw Red Bull driver Yuki Tsunoda and Alpine's debutant Franco Colapinto clash and provoke two red flags, Ferrari were ready to keep advancing and have a shot at the pole position in Q3.

Ferrari's Lewis Hamilton did not hold back after being eliminated early in F1 qualifying for the Imola GP. He'll start the race in 12th