World champion Lewis Hamilton believes he owes nothing to Formula One and that the sport is driven by money and power.
Speaking to CNN’s Amanda Davies, Hamilton said drivers on the grid have “very little” influence on decision making at the top of the sport.
The Briton finished seventh at the Chinese Grand Prix last weekend after watching team-mate Nico Rosberg make it three wins out of three this season, extending his championship lead over Hamilton to 36 points.
When asked what say he has on decisions made in F1, the world champion said: “I would say – very little. Very, very little. Ultimately sport, business… it’s money and power.
“We will say stuff but ultimately it’s those people who are sitting in their chair, striking a pen, paying cheques, making money that will be the ones that.”
“I don’t think there is a fault. I didn’t say it was wrong. It’s just like a corporate business. Money is the power. Money is the ruler. The people who own the sport make the decisions.”
On his relationship with teammate Rosberg, Hamilton said: “He’s done a great job. 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 whilst it lasts because you never know how long it’s going to last.”
You can watch Hamilton’s full interview on CNN’s Formula One show ‘The Circuit’ which airs during its Monaco special on Friday 20th May at 19:30 GST.