F1: I promote Formula 1 enough - Hamilton

Lewis Hamilton claims he owes Formula 1 nothing given his belief he promotes it "more than any driver ever has."

The three-time world champion has not hidden from the spotlight during his time in F1, seen at numerous events and parties away from a racetrack over the years. Last year, F1 chief executiveBernie Ecclestone criticized the likes of Sebastian Vettel and Nico Rosberg for not promoting F1, unlike Hamilton who he claimed to be "the best champion we have had in a long, long time."

Speaking in an interview with CNN, Hamilton said: "I actually probably promote the sport more than any other driver ever has. I'm at more events talking about Formula 1 more than any driver ever has - probably all the other drivers put together and more. So I don't feel like I have any more of a responsibility.

"I've got some incredible fans and I give as much time as I can to motivate them and energise those who do follow me. So I don't know what else I have to give to. I've been there for 10 years. Love the sport. Given my blood, sweat and tears for the sport. So no, I don't feel like I owe it anything."

Hamilton, said he has told Mercedes teammate Nico Rosberg to revel in his run of success while he can. Rosberg has won the first three grands prix of this season to lead Hamilton in the drivers' standings by 36 points, and six overall stretching back to last season.

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"He's done a great job," added Hamilton. "I've not been there to really be in the fight with him. He's had pretty much a breeze for the last three races.

"Good for him. Enjoy it while it lasts, because you never know how long it's going to last."

Originally on Autosport.com