I don't care about the haters, says Hamilton

Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton insists he will never be affected by criticism of his polarising personality. Hamilton, 32, is the most successful British Formula One driver of all time after winning his fourth world title this season. But despite his success, the Mercedes driver remains disliked by some in his country due to a perceived aloof attitude towards the media and sports fans.

'I don't really feel anything'

Hamilton isn't fussed about the public perception of his demeanour and has no intention of changing his ways. 'I don't really feel anything,' he said in an interview with BBC Radio Five Live's Sportsweek on Sunday. 'I know what my values are, I know what I've achieved and I know where me and my family have come from,' he said. 

'Couldn't care less'

'I don't rely on acceptance from any source other than my family and myself so honestly I couldn't care if (popularity) was more or less. There is a lot of positivity when I go to the British Grand Prix and I get a great amount of support around the world, with British flags all over the place. I only notice the positives. There may be negative people out there or those with negative things to say but that has no relevance in my life,' he added.

Hamilton is now one of only five drivers in F1 history with four or more titles, and is three behind Michael Schumacher's record.