F1 racing legend Michael Schumacher continues with his recovery at home near Lake Geneva, Switzerland as the family maintains a veil of privacy, limiting how much news and updates get leaked online. However, Schumacher manages to stay in the headlines, particularly now following negative comments from fellow racer Lewis Hamilton.

According to a German tabloid, the Kolner Express, Hamilton was quoted in criticizing Schumacher's success and then compared it to his own achievements in the world of racing.

"I've never done the things that Michael did to win my titles," Hamilton reportedly said. "I won mine with my natural abilities only."

Almost immediately following the release of this statement, fans and close friends alike have begun lashing out against Hamilton. According to a report from Autoweek, the President of Schumacher's fan club in the racer's hometown of Kerpen, Reiner Ferling lashed back on behalf of Schumacher's numerous fans.

"Hamilton should probably switch on his brain before he talks. He should learn about what Michael achieved. I just say, pride comes before a fall," says Ferling.

Hamilton later responded to the backlash via Instagram where he posted a photo of himself alongside Michael Schumacher. In his post Hamilton, explains that he is a big fan of Michael Schumacher and grew up watching the racing legend. He also mentions that he does keep Schumacher in his prayers.

"Please do not believe all that you read. I would never wish to disrespect him nor his family and I hold them in the highest regard. He was and is the greatest of our time and I am hugely proud and grateful to have met him and spent even the littlest time with. He was always kind to me," Hamilton explains.

However this does not directly address whether he did indeed state what the Kolner Express reported or if it was fabricated and he is denying even saying the words attributed to him.