Is it a sign of a changing Britain, self confident, winning, stylish, young - this does not sound like an English sportsman, aren't we supposed to be the plucky underdog and good at losing. Olympics, F1 - maybe we don't know how to handle success, it's doesn't fit with our national psyche

Brett, London, UK

I just don't get it. The man is a brilliant driver, and he bested a great group of drivers to become world champion. Is is aloof, and arrogant, and packaged. Of course he is! What matters is what happens on the track, and there the man is the best.

Jeff, London, UK

Lewis H is the best example of "Star Talent" from Britain to emerge onto the face of international motor sport for a very very long time. He has made many of his dreams come true by the "hard work route" and he is a lionhearted fighter which Formula 1 needs.

Phil Moore, Leamington Spa, England

A lot of Brits commenting here.. how many actually watch F1? .. my guess would be - not too many.
LH is hated by: Ferrari Fans (My self included), Virtually everyone in F1
Reason: His attempted overtakin people with pure rashness. Could have done some serious damage, Does not provide racing room

ds, mumbai, india

Just one thing - the stupidity of the British attitude to sport (p.s. I am British) "It's the taking part that counts". When will we learn that winning is why we take part and the objective of the exercise. If we lose we slate and ridicule our sporting people but god forbid they win!!

REG, Trinity, Jersey

It's got nothing to do with racism or jealousy, but he just doesn't come across as a warm likeable guy. Maybe he doesn't mean to but he does appear aloof and overly concerned with image rather than being a real down to earth eat chips out of newspaper type bloke.

Brian, Cheltenham, UK

This article lacks a real understanding in the socio-economic divisions that exist in Britain and in many parts of Europe which centers on race. He is a fantastic role model for young men all over the world and role of family. Aloof is a very British trait. I guess MS can't see that!!!!

N.A, London,

Lewis did ok, despite the standard Ferrari favoritism and racism. Go Lewis!

vince venincasa, Longmont, USA

The persons who make negative comments about Lewis, should reflect before giving these missguided opinions.
Jim Clark and Jackie Stewart both went to live as tax exiles in Switzerland.
The ultimate James Bond -- Mr S Connery is also a tax exile.
The critics are shamefully, jealous of success.

NICK WILSON, LICHFIELD, England

Unfortunately the article brings forward something that people tread carefully around, the fact that most nations in the western world are essentially racist. Hamilton is simply an excellent driver, as good as if not better than Schumacher. But he's black and. hence, not really welcome.

Darkle, bristol, UK

What a STUPID premise - well done him for doing better than all you losers/critics, go get a life/brain or watch football, I live in Brasil and am English - but would never again choose to live in the controlled over taxed environment of the UK - I love F1 and went to my first race in Monza 1967.

Michael Collins, Salvador, Brasil

Lewis dealt with the racists the best way possible, ignored the idiots and did what he dose best, concentrated on what was important to him and won the world drivers championship, just because he has a real talent. And they (the racists) didn't win the mind games.

Scott Stringfellow, Aylesbury, UK

Something everyone outside of motor racing dosen't understand, is that to be a good racing driver, you have to be partly selfish. Having your team concentrating on you is part of how to win. Hamilton , Senna, Prost, Schumacher. The list is of every GP world champion. Like it or not, thats racing!

Scott Stringfellow, Aylesbury, UK

I think the problem arised because a racing star needs more time for the people to realize the good things above the bad ones. Certainly McLaren lost both titles in 2007 just because Hamilton is British, a good driver, and just wanted to be No1 above Alonso, and Dennis chose marketing over the sport

Benalf, Caracas , Venezuela

when you hear people talking about being black or asian is cause for them race is an issue. Lewis's another Brit and his talent goes beyond color or roots. Stop the hate and try to figure why Lewis have so many detractors. I think in part is 'cause he's became a marketing good before a world champ

Benalf, Caracas, Venezuela

Sorry but the references to Spanish racism is false. Spanish we don't like Hamilton because he avoided F. Alonso to win his third consecutive championship, instead to help him as a rookie he was. Too ambitious, arrogant, selfish... who helps Kimi to win the champ instead of his team mate. A Shame!

Isidro, Reading, UK

I've been an F1 fan for many years and I am so proud of Lewis Hamilton for achieving this success....in the Caribbean we have so few role models to look up to; especially those on a world stage.....and now LH (with Grenadian roots) is a WORLD champion and our hero! The Caribbean loves LH!!!

Missy, San Fernando, Trinidad & Tobago

For once Britain is back in No. 1 place and they're still whinging! Hamilton's a saint compared to George Best, who was idolised. Are these British whingers such losers that they don't even realise when they have just won? As a Brit I'm enormously proud we are No. 1. Where's the ticker tape parade?

Rose, London, UK

All I can say is if one has comes to this sport with the best car, the best team, a great family, handsome and a lovely girlfriend and he is half black oh boy then all the knives come out. ENVY is what it is. Get over it couse the dude is here to stay - hopefully his lovely girlfriend too.

Eduardo, New York, US

Sometimes it cleanses the soul to get away from so much vitrol and hate. Good to see that many still admire the young man. He is 23 years old and instead of encouragement, there is all this . Shameful. People, do you care to take a look in the mirror. See yourself for who you really are.

M. Taylor, Brampton, Canada

A total lack of humility, no understanding of or empathy with or for others, disingenuousness, all dressed up in wholesome family values. Did we berate Hill, Stewart, Moss, Clark, Collins, Hawthorne, Elford? Nope. Why? Cos we liked em as people with integrity. Nowt to do with colour or jealousy.

Bart Richins, Deal, UK

Hamilton gets more praise in the Spanish press than in the British one. I don't understand why people hate him, other than because of his questionable driving that is. While I find him a bit irritating, I think he fully deserves to be celebrated.

Jacques, London,

Who is the stunningly attractive young woman second from left in your photo?

Bill Walton, elstree, England

Thats his bird, her name is Nicole Scherzinger!

In response to the haters, its all jealousy!!

Ken, Cheltenham, England

Rubbish, nothing to do with racism. How about these popular black/asian stars: Kelly Holmes, Monty Panesar, Lennox Lewis, Rio Ferdinand, Ian Wright, John Barnes, Colin Jackson, Emile Heskey, Ravi Bopara, Chris Eubank, Theo Walcott, ... could go on.

Pls stop playing the race card.

Ryan, Pimlico,

Nothing to do with his colour or his UK tax avoidance.

Hamilton falls into the Tiger Woods hole of over-sponsorship, so many sponsors to not offend by offering an opinion on anything.

They may as well interview a brick wall, no character.

Mike, Leeds, UK

I don't think this is about race it's about the huge number of team merchandise wearing drones that have littered every F1 spectator stand since the mid 90's. Who drives the car isn’t important to them, the only thing that is important is that the red car wins.

David, London,

Bravo to Lewis and his exceptional talents..... the reactions to his win...clearly shows that they are seeing through a racial lens....time to wake up..take a note from the amazing success of Barack Obama...racism is one of the most challenging issues confronting Britian and the world.. time to heal

maggi shiel-rolle, nassau, bahamas

Some people find it hard to accept black people. and when they see some as good as lewis they just don't know what to do. FACT. racism is deep in many people's live but they like to live in denial.

Mike, Berkshire, UK

Who is the stunningly attractive young woman second from left in your photo?

Bill Walton, elstree, England

Lewis Hamilton is F1 world champion – there is no F1 champion for black or white!

I used to find Grand Prix quite boring, however, since his arrival, its nothing but exciting and competitive. I am already looking forward to the next season. if you dont like him then don’t watch the game.

Constance H, Maidenhead, UK

Trevor Phillips hit the nail on the head, saying Mr Obama would've never be british prime minister not only because of the labour party nominees for leader but also the british public would never vote for a person of colour. Britain is still a very very racist country and Lewis is being victimised.

jamie p, london, england

In The Netherlands we have many sport stars who move to Belgium for the better tax climate, it isn't an issue at all overhere.

Jules, The Hague, Holland

I don't think this is a racial thing, i think the UK in general dislikes success. It's the 'you have, i haven't' attitude, from small-minded people, lead by an even smaller minded government. I'm an UK National, currently living in the USA and I've really noticed it since leaving the country.

James H, Boston, USA

My, oh how we in this country are so steeped in envy and hypocrisy. 99.9% of the tax complainers will be off like a shot to suitable tax havens if they had the talent or means to earn a fraction of what young Lweis does. Leave the young man be and keep your bile and negativity to yourselves.

Ollie, Kingston Upon Thames, UK

The animosity faced by LH is generally how racism is experienced by people in the public eye however, I doubt LH is facing it for the first time. It is a shame that such a blatant display is barely challenged by the media.

Sharon, Oxford,

Unfortunately this schism of the British public towards Hamilton simply reflects the attitude people in this country have towards successful people of colour. Let him be proud -- he deserves to be and also provides an excellent role model -- no mention of drugs or illicit sex unlike footballers

DP, London,

F1 is a tedious sport followed by equally tedious people. LH seems like a nice enough chap though.

Rob, London, UK

Maybe he could donate a proportion of his income to charity every year, considering all the extra income he will have by not paying taxes. That might endear him to some.

Nirav, London,

ALL F1 drivers are nurtured by the teams. Just because LH's talent drew the spotlight to him early, he's now taking hits. McLaren helped (as any team would any driver) but his success results from talent & determination. He obviously cares more about the driving than the media storm and good for him

G, Lancashire, UK

I'm surprised there's anything but adulation for him in the media.

I'm proud of him and his achievement. If he's arrogant, fair play to him - he's earned the right through talent & hard work. And so what if he lives in Switzerland - I would if I could. Spain? Sour grapes. Long may he reign F1

G, Lancashire, UK

The sport of Formula 1 is a complex activity, which requires not only exceptional personal ability of a driver but the huge resources and expertise of a team. Those that understand this see Lewis Hamilton's achievement as a testiment to the deed of endeavour which is a rare trait indeed !

Jeff Durrant, Hemel Hempstead, UK

For an American I can say that arrogance is not an issue for us in a Champion. But F1 is a world sport where "character" is valued as well as talent. He didn't deserve to win this year, but last year. A champion he is but his character will determine whether he becomes a Mike Tyson or a Muhammad Ali

Jerod, Tokyo, Japan

Lets have more suport for Hamilton and less envy please he deserves it good luck lewis you have my vote.

Catherine Archer, Bournemouth, england

To my knowledge Hamilton has always been perfectly respectful to his opponents and racing fans.

But perhaps Hamilton only cares about winning car races, and doesn't give a stuff about "winning over large sections of the sporting public". And why should he?

Nick, France,

It is typical of the British public to dislike a winner I think it is inbred within the British phsyche that to come second is just as good as winning.Hamilton and his family were fortunate to receive the support of Ron Dennis and his team but that support has been fully repaid.Well done I say !

Peter, worthing, UK

Lewis has done very well for his country and we should be very proud of him. So what if he moved to switzerland to avoid tax, he's not using the NHS or any of the services it pays for so why should he have to pay for it ? This country doesn't deserve his money in my opinion. Lewis WDC 08.x x x

Emma Millard, Leeds, UK

Uhmm, he doesnt need to win the hearts of anyone. He is a world-champion, has a babe by his side and by the looks of it, incredibly satisfied and not in need of wide public affection.

kat, birmingham,

Given our media, no wonder he chooses to have some privacy and live in Switzerland. And if racist Spanish fans prefer Alonso, let them cry in their beer as Lewis beats him in the title two years running!

Andy, London,

This is typical of the British mentality, his family worked hard, taken the risk's believed he would succeed, everybody would say good luck, hope you make it, when he did what do the British do, complain that is what the British excel in, now they rubbish him, he made it and good luck to him.

Andrew , Monchengladbach, Germany

Put me down in the statistics for pro Hamilton-he has got my heart

Paul David Forrester, Newcastle under Lyme, Great Britain

"Thousands believe Hamilton symbolises everything that has gone wrong with modern sport"

Yeah, and millions think the opposite.

Alastair Johnson, Alicante, Spain

Hey certainly does not have the hottest girlfriend. You have clearly not seen any of the other driver's wives/girlfriends.

Tone, Sydney, Australia

Hamilton's race is not "undoubtedly" the cause of his unpopularity in Spain. It's rather the Spanish media campaign against him and in favour of his teammate Alonso last year. It was provoked by the feeling that McLaren, being British, would favour his young star and wouldn't let Alonso win again.

Luciano, Valencia,

I had forgotten Lewis Hamilton was black.
To me he's just a great young champion of whom we Brits should be proud wherever he (or we ) live.
We do hate success don't we?!

Duncan, Santa Barbara, USA

The man is good, for sure, but maybe he is not a good man... At least in this aspect he behaves like Schumacher. But, who cares? Like Felipe Massa said, he won, and that's all. If British public don't like it, sorry for them. He's the best Briton available at the sport now. They sholud be happy.

Silvio, Brasilia, Brazil

If only there were more young sportsmen who could set such a good role model as Lewis: he does not get reported in the press for anti-social,out of control behaviour. For boys today, premier league footballers are often the main role model: I think that Lewis offers a much better example.

Catherine, Colchester,

We've now WON olympic golds after many years of coming second best! Lewis has now WON F1. Lets be proud to be brits again. Well done mate putting the Great back into Great Britian. Welcome to the new world everyone!

yorled , Nuneaton, Warwickshire

This is the same reaction people had against Tiger Woods and the Williams sisters. It is not about the arrogance or tax invasion it is about people of color winning sports that was once dominated by Caucasians. Soon every sport will have a champion of color so get use to it.

Robin, New York, USA

Why does everyone dislike Hamilton (including here in Spain)? It does not have to do with race. He is disliked for his arrogance, for his readiness ending the rules of the game and of sportmanship in order to win, for having done anything and everything against Alonso when in Mclaren to get him out.

Marcus, Madris,

great champions dont always have great personalities, he seems to me to be a quiet person, very focused on his goals and what has been his entire life from a young age, its not unbelievable to think he may have social issues however well trained by advisers he may be.

David, Melbourne,

It's clear we're watching what will be an iconic and much talked about race, in history. Lewis has genius talent, is deservedly well paid, handsome and younger than all his rivals. The derogatory comments made by some, are risible and so transparently borne from their own jealousy and inadequacies

Michelle, West London,

It seems all the characteristics which have helped Lewis become the iconic champion that he truly is, such as support, drive and determination are things we can only aspire to have in our own lives, yet as a nation we feed such success to the lions. What a bitter, jealous and twisted people we are!

Darren, Hampshire, UK

As the government squanders our money on creating thousands of non-jobs & wastes billions of ponds on PFI's etc
Everyone shoulld feel entitled to legally minimise their taxes as much as possible.
The money saved can then be applied to something really worthwhile.

chris forward, Springwood, Australia

I've been an F1 fan for over 25 years and I think Lewis deserves his hard earned title. Even McLaren can't just make talent, Lewis has had to show talent and extreme commitment to get where he is. Anything less gets you Eddie Irvine, Martin Brundle, David Coulthard etc., nice guys but not champions.

Geoff, Woodville,

To me personally, Hamilton is a bit reminiscent of the late (and great) Ayrton Senna. It's the style, the attitude, etc. And I do remember that Senna was not exactly universally liked. Or rather he was either passionately loved or passionately hated. Same will be with Hamilton, I guess.

Eva, Luxembourg,

I think he's a great driver, but can't understand the decision to drape himself in a Union Jack.
Ryan G, Lond

You plonker.

John, Reading, uk

Thomas Hobbs observed that the individual seeks his own benefit,John Locke and Adam Smith agreed, it therefore follows that individuals who unite in common purpose , seek the benefit of the group, Maclaren is no different from any other team in this respect.

Eddy, Bury St.Edmunds,

Hamilton divides people, just like Alonso, but for different reasons. I'm an Alonso fan and I supported him last year. However, I think Hamilton deserved the title this time. I think the problem is not Hamilton but his team. I can't think of driver who has anything good to say about Ron's policies.

Joss, London,

It is funny how all you brits, finally have someone to be proud of and then people start slagging him off and saying he has had it easy, and is arrogant. When a country should be proud of someone so many want to cut him down because they are purely jealous.

Maddo, Brisbane, Australia

Been said before, be said again, for some reason us Brits dont like a winner. The lads grafted for years to get where he is and so what if its off the back of McLaren support. After all how many 9 yo's would approach Ron Dennis and tell him he wants to drive for him! Well done Lewis, a worthy champ!

gary edge, Lancing, West Sussex

Sucessful people will always have their begrudgers. Well done Lewis - you bring joy to many - not least of which, your brother who clearly idolises you. Its great to see. I do hope Massa gets his day in the sun too but preferably not with Ferrari.

Graham Hill, Kilkenny, Ireland

Generally, disapproval of Hamilton results from his sheer lack of any humility whatsoever, rather than tax exile status or even race. And yes, you can ultimately be successful and still possess, even display this characteristic - Johnny Wilkinson, Jason Robinson, Andrew Flintoff to name but three.

David, London, UK

Such a strange and bizarre trait, to knock a successful winner down. He scored a terrific victory. The knockers should be asked for a singular success or triumph in their lives that could be used as a comparitor.

Doug, Burton on Trent,

The FIA, then the media slammed into another driver in the same manner. Initially open, honest, and very fast , accused by the FIA as a cheat he was so fast. Battered, he became insular, thus seen as arrogance. Schumacher. Lewis is a lovely guy, but a racer, and he will be changed by same abuse.

martin short, St.Ives, UK

Lewis Hamilton and I have one thing in common-we are both British (Wherever we might live) . Unlike a lot of others he makes you feel proud to be British and all I can say is -keep on goin on goin on Lewis!

JS Sierzant , Nelson , England

Thank God nomal people are having their say on here. I for one agree with Guy - why should us that have a good work ethic pay for those that sit on their backsides? As for Lewis Hamilton - good for him, he seems grounded, normal & happy! Envy & bigotry motivate those that are negative about him.

Tara , Hitchin, Bedfordshire

you gotta be joking!! - LH is a winner and deserves respect for absolute effort and realising his dream. Anyone critisising him for leaving the UK should have their head examined, where does every other driver live??? Geneva or Monaco, why? to get away from stupid analysis, comments and questions?!!

James Odell, Oxford, UK

To Guy from London
Taxes don't go to Brown, they go to the nation, and are used to finance services, particularly useful for those who don't earn quite as much as Hamilton.
With unemployment predicted to hit 7 pct in the UK your reference to "underserving layabouts" is pretty contemptible.

Simon , London, UK

He is just another Jacques Villeneuve, a good driver with the best car.

Tek, Munich, Germany

I read quite a few postings after the Grand Prix and can't recall any negative comments by Brits or people living in Britain.

OK - the Spanish don't like him because he's shown up Alonso as a spoilt brat and a bad loser. And the Brazilians naturally enough wanted Massa to win.

Alex, Tunbridge Wells,

Get used to it Mr Hamilton, the British will support you all the while you are the underdog, but if you dare to be a success prepare to be thrown to the wolves. What a pathetic race we have become.

Nick , Milton Keynes, UK,

I'm inclined to think his detractors reflect their green-eyed mindset, possibly together with subconscious racism.
Unlike many young celebrities, he's polite and well mannered. A credit to his family. His courage and determination coupled with self-effacement used to be the essence of Britishness

Keith, Ashford, Kent

The comments here about 90% pro Hamilton. Of the 10%, most appear to be from overseas.

But hey, nice guy, no issues, no alcohol, liked doesn't sell newspapers.

Alex, Tunbridge Wells,

Amazing to an American that Hamilton is being criticized!! He is the perfect example of manners, talent, toughness and taste that one would expect from a British World Champion. Bravo and a pox on the unappreciative rabble...

Rod Campbell, Santa Monica, United States

The press just build people up and then knock them down, it sells papers... so what if he has moved to avoid paying tax, are people saying if they had the opportunity they wouldn't do the same. All our tax is going on to bail out greedy bankers anyway!

James Stone, London, UK

I live in Geneva, pay 35% tax + healthcare, so no it's not a "tax haven", but quality of life is great.

D, Geneva, Switzerland.

Its sad when the press turn on somebody who is as dedicated and focused as LH. He and his family have committed themselves to this goal for at least the last 13 years. Allow him the credit he is due. Bigots are not limited to Spain but elitest jounalists. This negativity has one source THE PRESS!

Kam, Milton Keynes, UK

Underlying the dislike is racism. If he were white, with his reserve, self control, and pleasant manners he'd be called the perfect Englishman.

Mike, Pittsburgh,

LH and his father have had a dream since he was a little boy, to be F1 world champion, they started from scratch,and worked the way up in the face of lots of problems,for the 1st time in many years we have somebody the whole country can look up to and celebrate..but alas a typical british response.

Paul Scott, Pitsea, UK

Would you prefer Hamilton to be involved in knife crime,drugs stealing cars racing from Police or in jail. I'm proud he's arrogant proud and boastful of doing what is right and working hard,rich without doing anyone harm even if he has to be in switzerland to escape all the nasty critics & racism.

Koko, London, UK

Now its tax that the goons are using to beat Lewis with! List the drivers who live in their home country...Button resides in Monacco despite winning nothing! But thats no problem. It seems to me that race is 'the elepahant in the room' that no one dare mention. He's been A1 since Blue Peter in '99!

Christian, Blackpool UK,

It's always the same story: do well and you are pilloried. He has done well and he worked for it. He is a terrific ambassader for sport and the UK.. Well done Lewis AND your family for supporting you as they have.

Laurie Brooks, Yarm, UK

For a man to be confident and self-asured, scares the media so much that we get a backlash like this. Simply because he doesn't crumble when pressure is applied doesn't mean he is selfish and unbritish, that is crazy. Just because he says he is going to win and does; doesn't make him less of a hero.

Niall Halsall, Harrow, London

Well done, Lewis Hamilton!
There is no arrogance, only honesty, in saying you are good when in fact you are great. Consider it an honour that the grey, stumbling, mumbling people dislike you - who would want to be liked by their like? Let them go earn their own tax!

Trevor Watkins, Jeffreys Bay, South Africa

Well deserved win and thorughly enjoyable year sometimes waking up early in the morning to watch F1 and othertimes withstanding my wife telling me off for not taking the kids out on sundays.
F1 is just a sport and people should just enjoy it !!. I hope Lewis will bring joy as did Nigel Mansell

Keith Jo, London,

The unpopularity is a typical British problem If he went out at night and got drunk and abused drugs and people. Brits would probably find him more palatable. They would recognise him as one of us. Its about time Britain took pride in winning and success. Instead of taking pride in binge drinking.

Robert , Birmingham,

He's a true winner and achiever, he loves his family and an interesting personality. Why do we have to knock people who actually win things in this country? Oh yes - jealousy. I've no doubt he could possibly be arrogant at times but you need that confidence in order to win. Is anyone perfect?

Jon, London,

The great unwashed red-top readers. God luv 'em all. You do not have to be a millionaire to want to live outside the UK. There are plenty of us that are not and are happy.

Russ Kent, Maastricht, The Netherlands

Intelligent, well spoken, polite, amazingly mentally strong (considering he is only 23), ambitious, gorgeous, generally seems to have his wits about him, what's to hate? apparently everything if you don't possess any of these things yourself! Forget the hate mongers, we are all so so proud of you!!

L, London, England

He seems to be missing a sense of humour, nobody likes paying tax so we don't always dislike people avoiding it, especially if they are a bit more cheeky. Lewis just seems a bit serious and a bit wet. He and his WAG seem manufactured, like human versions of his car.

Mark Watson, Barcelona, Spain

The detractors should have been at Goodwood for The Festival of Speed.

His behaviour there was a model for all sportsman who deal with the public.

He took time to sign autographs for youngsters at the side of the track where there was not any paparazzi, and also to mix with the bikers.

R.Winder, Cerro Gordo, Spain

My Oh My how we hate success and flamboyance. The celebration of skill and cool nerve from a 23 year - even that cannot over-ride the basic racial undertone and jealousy in some peoples hearts.
Just as well LH can get over all the racists out there, on his way to his Swiss tax haven.......

Chris Williams, Bridgend, UK

What I would like to know is why when we have someone with such a raw tallent as Lewis do we always find the negatives in someone. He has worked hard all his life to get into the position he is in now and so has his family and the team. I detect a bit of the schumacher sindrome here.!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Paul Thoupos, Canvey Island, England

Surely Lewis is entitled to be a little arrogant and smug. He's just publicly proved himself to be the best in the world at what he does at only 23 years old. Most 23 year olds who won something would be all over the place, just read the papers, there all there, drunk or half naked or in rehab.

Mike, london,

Are we forgetting what it is to be a true British Champion? We need a good few years of mediocrity before finally achieving your goal on one occasion. You then disappear into sporting memories before retiring gracefully. Well done Lewis, a worthy Champion. You have my support ,.

G, London,

The press and forums are the only place you'll find negative feelings towards Lewis. The Press love a good scandal and for this squeeky clean sportstar - its all they've got! As for internet forums, since when did they represent a nation!

Richard, Essex, UK

Here we go. The minute we have a new sporting hero the press want to drag him down. This is the 21st century, this sport is ultra professional, sports stars are businessmen and nice guys come second.

Murray has bad attitude, Hamilton is aloof, what do they have in common - oh, they're both winners

zeb mccardle, Bristol,

It's all down to jealousy. This happens in any sport when a young upstart appears, wipes the floor with his opposition, and is recognised as one of the greatest.

One can only feel sorry for many of the other drivers who must surely realise that their career aspirations are now effectively finished.

Alastair Johnson, Alicante, Spain

I've spoken to no one among my sport mad friends who have these hostile feelings towards Hamilton found on the Internet and phone-ins. I think those involved in this are odd. If we are in any way typical, there's staightforward admiration for his achievement.

gerry, clydebank,

There are some small and pathetic people in this world. Lewis won that championship in 18 races before Interlagos. And at £500m on reduced tax to look forward to (and we would all make the same decision to dodge tax if we could,you hypocrits) im sure the noise of moaners is a very inaudible buzzing.

Chris, Rochdale, UK

He's had it too easy. While others who came to Formula 1 had to prove themselves on minor teams, like Schumacher with Benetton, Hamilton landed in a position that others think they deserve. Then he failed to take advantage of it, almost losing his second world championship.

Neil, Norwich, UK

Lewis has focussed in winning this championship despite all the set backs and having to deal with racist taunts. As a child he believed he could win and he has achieved his ambition. Like him or hate him, no one can deny that he is a worthy champion.

Sarah Bailey, London, UK

Once again we get ill-educated comments from people about tax. It is tax revenue that pays for Government spending. Some people seem not to have the intelligence to make this link. Am I alone in thinking that we need to move away from a regressive, to a progressive, tax system in this country?

Roger Hull, Maidenhead, United Kingdom

I think the animosity stems from the fact he appears to be unpopular with the other drivers rather than his tax status. Like many footballers and other sportsmen, they tend to get it in the neck for inclome related issues only once they have already become unpopular.

Chris, Brussels,

Well done, Lewis!'. Amid all the recent doom and gloom, we should be celebrating the achievement of such a young individual, not slamming you.

Arrogance? Nah! That's a term reserved for those of us that make loadsa money without giving anything back to the masses in return!

Pat Nicholson, Heysham, United Kingdom

Why shouldn't he live in Switzerland?
If you had his earnings you wouldn't want to go to he goverment either. Coulthard lives in Monaco, Stewart has lived in Switzerland for years, so what.

Mullarkian, York,

If Hamilton objects to paying UK tax, as the rest of us have to, then I object to him waving a British flag at F1 races. Let him wave a Swiss flag instead!

Eddie Palm, Guildford, UK

The guy is focused and driven to succeed in his chosen profession... like Tiger Woods, Roger Federer, David Beckham et al, yet we don't slaughter these guys for their ambition. Support him and celebrate his success or, if you have nothing nice to say, just keep quiet.

susan, glasgow,

Most F1 drivers including David Coulthard are tax exiles so why is this an issue ? I suspect that perhaps the issue is more about the age old british tradition of the politics of envy and that at the age of 23 years he now has the world at his feet. In the US he would be feted .

michael perman, london, uk

I agree with Sophie - the real Lewis was seen on Top Gear. He's by far the least arrogant F1 driver in the World

Mark, Cambridge, UK

"he is an entirely un-British sportsman"... Correct!! He's a winner!!

Josh, oxford, uk

What Lewis need to do is focus on his racing, keep winning. Don't waste time on those who dislike him. Why waste time on people who wants or waits to destroy you?

Cyndy, Farnborough, UK

British are too used to immortalising the vain, vacuous & flash footballers this country produces. They can`t cope with a sportsman who isn`t frequently drunk, fornicating with prostitutes etc. Be proud of him & wouldn`t you rather keep your tax or see it go to yet another work shy layabout?

meme, Leeds, UK

I don't think Lewis has made himself anything more than all the other drivers; If he didn't say that he considered himself to be the best driver, he'd be perceived as having no self-belief. Other sportsmen endorse products and have biographies - where's the vitriol aimed at them? I think he's class.

M.D., Bedford,

Lewis Hamilton has been driving towards his Championship dream all his life. Its not only his Job but its his goal in life. I would bet every single pound that i have that if people had the money Lewis has they would move to spain or somewhere else. Hamiltons mood is the same as all the F1 racers

Rhys Carswell, Littlehampton, England

All the bile and jealousy these bitter people bring up. They must have very unfulfilled and disapointing lives to have so much time and effort to divert to such negative emotions.

Well done Lewis - I for one think he is far less arrogant than Senna, Schumacher and far more character than Alonso.

Dan, London, UK

Well done to Hamilton, and I think he appears to come across as a great guy. Re: living in Geneva for tax reasons, I would do exactly the same, as I am sure realistically most people would in his situation. He has earned his pay,why would you want to pay excessive tax to fund the layabouts of UK?

Matt, Leeds, UK

Last year Hamilton's petulance destroyed a great driver's chance of a deserved hat-trick of world titles and almost ruined his team (and their chance of a Constructor's title), and not forgetting how he bottled an almost unassailable lead. This year he fluked it. He's quick but not worthy yet.

ezz, Grimsby, England

Focus and determination should not be perceived as arrogance, we have a new world champion of which everyone should be proud! I didn't see the German's complaining at Schumacher's apparent arrogance - instead they got behind their man with pride and passion, a lesson to be learnt for the cynics!!

John, Chester, UK

Lewis is a role model to young British people - of all races. If you work hard and pursue you dream you will achieve it - he has proved it. Hes a polite chap and his family come across as lovely people. Hes a British sporting hero and the rest of the paddock better get used to him.

Iain, Reading, UK

Among the ones that are critical of Hamilton and McLaren tend to be supporters of Alonso who has vehemently condemned Hamilton.

Louis, Liverpool, UK

Schumacher was a much more exciting - more inventive - driver, his brain firing on all cylanders throughout a race.

I'm not a Hamilton fan. He is setting himself apart from the other drivers with a combination of arrogance & cultivated celebrity.

Great sportsmen don't have to be celebrities.

Melissa, London,

I used to work and live in England, the harder I worked and earned more money the more I got taxed. I left England for that reason.. and I dont even have a hot girlfriend!
Taxing me to hand out to destructive yobs who would then mug me!
Hate him or love him, the boy is good at what he does!

Michael Djan, Lagos,

Hamilton is the sort of guy who would have had his dinner money stolen at school. He lacks any real substance, grit, or intrinsic value. Rather he is a 'daddy's boy' who has, albeit spectacularly successfully, ridden a torrent of manufactured assistance from others. That is what I can't abide.

Chris, Lisbon, Portugal

Whilst the difficulty in achieving a F1 world title should not be underplayed, it has to be recognised that Hamilton has been uniquely placed to do this. Such a long development under the wing of a F1 team. If he had not been the youngest world champion it would have been an big failure by McLaren.

David Hammett, Dunfermline, UK

Hamilton's negative image amongst a small but noisy minority is due to jealousy - pure and simple. Given his background he's fully earned his success. As for tax exile, so what? Who cares? I would do the same, thousands of others do too. Why should he pay taxes here if he doesn't live here?

Alex Kerr, London, UK

We who dislike Hamilton, don't dislike him as a Champion but as a PR and marketing product who before achieving anything was shown by the media as a super hero. Besides, he unlike other great drivers, was created by McLaren and McLaren's sole investment in him is the main reason behind his success.

Piotr, London, London

Hamilton's main problem is the way he deals with the controversy that surrounds him. there is something fake about him. i mean i love his driving, irreproachable, but his character is flawed in som way. it seems to me that he has been groomed to radiate perfection, makin him unreal and uncomfortable

Ronald, Beirut, Lebanon

Competitiveness, risk and winning are dialled out of growing up in the UK, even though it's required in adult life. Hamilton is the epitome of dedication, focus, and a unique talent, which has helped him become a well-deserved world champion. As for living abroad, that comes with the package.

bob wilkinson, swindon,

Nice to see a British sportsman who actually has something to be arrogant about for a change. Look up his appearances on Top Gear for a glimpse of his down to earth personality. The real Lewis really is just an enthusiastic kid in a car, and a damn good one at that.

Sophie, Birmingham,

I have not even heard of this apparent "schism"; everyone seemed overjoyed. If you Brits don't want him, we will have him (and his Dad) back in Grenada, thank you very much. There is no animosity- only jealousy- that a working class son of an immigrant could be at the pinnacle in this country.

Kim, London, UK

"He is confrontational. He is arrogant. He is selfish. In short, he is an entirely un-British sportsman." Yes and that's why he's a winner. I'd rather have a winner than a "non-confrontational, humble, compassive all-round nice guy" who gets taken to the cleaners every time.

Pete, Tokyo,

Lewis Hamilton and Danny Cipriani are from the Britain I know. where parents take on extra jobs and make sacrifices to make ends meet while keeping your dream alive.f1, rugby, medical school, law school whatever. first thing you want to do is make sure they want for nothing. hard not to respect this

Will Bell, London, UK

For the majority this isn't about race. They also hate Andy Murray. We love Frank Bruno and Tim Henman!!!

The British hate winners and we are so cynical about competitive people. You need self belief to win.

Winners makes us feel bad,.But we can laugh at losers and feel better.

Well done Lewis!!

Tom Madiraju, Grimsby,

This isn't to do with Hamilton's race or character but more to do with peoples perceptions of hype.many recall the hype and greed of thatcher and reagan's policicies,barrow boys becoming millionaires in the unregulated stock exchange and financial institutions. credit crunch/new reality/feduptaxpaye

Diana01, Swansea,

Lewis hamilton is boring and has no charisma. He's not exactly the sort of guy you'd want to have a pint with down the pub. He's done very well for such a young driver, but I'm not going to like him just because he's successful.

James, Boncath, Wales

If the Sheriff of Notingham were to adopt a less agressive approach to high earners, say by setting an upper level on the amount of tax that can be paid in a year regardless of amount earned, maybe more high earners would remain in this country and the tax office/country would benefit.

Tim, Colchester,

Who says that Hamilton is "Struggling to win over large sections of the sporting public"?
It seems to me that it is only a small section of the media; a small number of racists and a small section of malcontents.
Real sports fans know he is a terrific sportsman and a great winner and worthy champion

Mick Flynn, Leighton Buzzard, UK

Lewis Hamilton lives in a world in which the combination of genuine good nature, talent and hard work is seen as unrealistic, existing only in a Disney film. Some people are unsettled by him, jealous or mystified and from childhood he has learned to keep them at a distance. Don't change Lewis.

Jay Jones, Cardiff, UK

This is more about how uncomfortable the British public are w/sporting success & their need for stereotypical familiarity i.e overpaid, underacheiving prima donna's who fail 'gallantly' at the final hurdle. They can identify with that. Hamilton is a credit to the nation & deserves better than this.

Barry Gledson, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK

lewis hamilton is an exceptional driver. If i had that much money i would be loathe to pay tax to a government who decides to use the money to fund wars we don't want. lewis has control over his money - he's set up a foundation to help disadvantaged kids. his win has made my year!

yaamini, Newcastle upon tyne,

Huge fan of Lewis, and ecstatic he won the title, but I can see why he "struggles to win over" fans in Britain. He isn't the type of sporting hero we're used to, e.g. John Terry, who sweats and shouts. Mansell was the same, even though also a tax exile. Lewis plays it ice cool.That's the difference

Richard, North London,

Couldn't be more delighted and agree more with the comments so far, particularly the chap who mentioned the 'noisy minority' or words to that effect. I cannot for the life of me understand why people think he is arrogant. Too many uninformed opinions formed from comments taken out of context.

Jonathan Barnett, Croydon,

Of course it's to do with race. Every F1 driver is a tax exile, including every Brit. "He is confrontational. He is arrogant. He is selfish. In short, he is an entirely un-British sportsman"....erm how many WINNING British sportsmen does this not apply to? He is the other, un-british, non-white.

HTrivedi, London, UK

I think he's a great driver, but can't understand the decision to drape himself in a Union Jack. Surely it should have been a Swiss flag? Isn't that where he lives and pays taxes? What do his fellow Swiss citizens think about this or did he do a separate photoshoot with a Swiss flag?

Ryan G, London (onshore),

I have to agree with the bloggers comments regarding Lewis that "In short, he is an entirely un-British sportsman".

He's a British sportsman that actually at the top of his game!!

M Bray, Warwickshire, UK

Looking at all the comments here and posted in other places, everyone is actually proud of Lewis and pleased to have a new genuine sporting hero, who's also a remarkable talent.
All this "Lewis is manipulative" is just media hype, and the opinion of a minority of the small minded or jealeous.

James Moore, Prague,

Lewis is a breath of fresh air in a sport that can stink to high heaven. And a damn fine driver!

TF, Exeter, UK

All i can say about lewis is congrats. when you suceed in achieving your goals there are always haters that hate you for whatever reason. it's about time us black british have a black british role model to look up to not just lewis but his father, goes against all the stereo types as a black father.

tyrell , sheffield , england

I used to adore Schumacher and Ferrari. However, from the moment I saw Hamilton, I changed my support to Mclaren and particularly Hamilton. The first black man in F1 who could out pace the whole pack of experienced drivers during his rookie season was a spectacular development.

Kawenja , Kampala, Uganda

Jealousy is a disease, Hamilton can live in Switzerland, bring his family to races and be a champion. We love him.

Gabriel, Dublin, Ireland

Could not agree more with JP and many others. People dislike successful people in this country. They are jealous, nothing more. I echo the comments above - he is mature, exceedingly skilled, polite and a real sporting legend. Well deserved and a real credit to the country!

Jon, Hull, UK

I believe that Lewis Hamilton is a great driver, sportsman and champion. I will be there waving my flag given the chance. But I don't like him. Don't ask me why...I just don't. Maybe he's a little too slick, overgroomed and perfect. The Switzerland issue doesn't help either.

colin, Wokingham, UK

The people who hate him forget his HARD WORK of 10 yrs and they are just jealous of his HARD EARNED money and World No.1 status. He didn’t leave UK, the ridiculous tax system which steals his money kicked him out. What is needed is to cleanup your mind and system!

CONGRATS LEWIS, TRUE CHAMPION!!!

Anoop, London, united Kingdom

Its absolute nonsense to call Lewis Hamilton a completely un-British sportsman. We have a British sportsman winning a British sport lets celebrate that fact. When he breaks the rules he is fined when he doesnt he is rewarded he as achieved something very few have achieved lets support him 100%

Richard Mayers, London, England

First we moan we win nothing at sport, then we moan when we have a sportsman who's one of the best at what he does.

Lewis is an intelligent, polite, and talented young man who clearly loves his family yet he still gets detractors. What do the detractors want our sportsman to be like? Ashley Cole?

Paul Williams, Didcot, UK

If Thousand belive that Hamilton is everything wrong with modern sport then billions still believe he is a true F1 Driver and will do what he can to win even with the FIA removing points from him he should of won the championship last year he is a true british .p.s no-one likes tax.

David Gibson, Hull, United Kingdom

thanks very much to timo glock for giving lewis the best christmas gift! HOHOHO.

george nocete, manila , philippines

I dont dislike Lewis Hamilton, he is clearly a fantastic driver, I dislike all the hype he gets in the media. After his first victory he was compared to Senna!!
Sure he is a great driver, but he hasn't proved himself as the best current driver yet, Alonso was incredible this year, and in a Renault!

L, Brighton,

Well I know it's only a sample of 16 but seeing as not one comment here is negative towards Hamilton can we perhaps suggest this massive number of Brits against Lewis don't exist and those who bothered to call in yesterday were just a very small, aggravated minority?

jim, London,

Can't really blame him. Why should he stay in the UK and watch his hard-earned wages be handed out to illegal immigrants and asylum seekers? If I had the money I would quite the UK and more importantly, the EU faster than Hamilton can drive

John Bull, Worthing, UK

The racing skills displayed by this man are exceptional.Like Senna he will be unpopular with drivers and spectators alike.However do we have to be subjected to the constant exposure to his family whilst viewing.This is a new trend in the sport developed by Hamilton which is unwelcome.

paulreece, krakow, poland

Ridiculous but also disturbing. The real issue in F1 isn't Hamilton - but how the sport is overly controlled and manipulated by the hierarchy. It is starting to smell of pro wrestling - and Ecclestone of Vince McMahon. It is actually shocking that he didn't find someway to disqualify McLaren!

Charlie West, Toronto, Canada

I do not understand the hate, what is there to hate?!? Why should he not escape the UK tax regime which on so many levels seems to attack hard work and determination to be successful!

Congratulations Lewis!

Adam, Cardiff, UK

Lewis deserves to be where he is!!! When Schumacher decided to move his millions to Monaco.....no one complained. You LEWIS HATERS take a look at yourselves first.

Neville Pluck, Cologne , Germany

At last a truly great british sporting star, lets rejoice in his fantastic achievement and not let petty bigotry and jealousy get in the way of something that we can all be proud of.

This young man is a example to all in Britain that with hard work and a loving family everything is possible.

michael reeve, potters bar, herts

So who is currently a "British Sportsman"? Beckham? Rooney? Andy Murray? Flintoff? Pietersen? Don't make me laugh. I'm not a fan of F1 but Hamilton stands head and shoulders above the rest in terms of maturity and sportsmanship. Remember his handling of Alonso last year - mature beyong his years

JP, Liverpool, UK

He's good, he's a winner, he's single-minded. Things Britain was once good at being but now, not so much. Disliking successful people is a manifestation of how we don't know our national character. Galiant losers, or out and out winners like we once were?

Good on you Lewis, keep it up!

Matthew, Southampton, UK

The problem is that F1 drivers are now competing with the manufacturers; for the latter, a driver is a "product" to be used to enhance the brand - so LH is on autocue - no sign of "elan". Fans are disenfranchised by the sport - security/PR/no go areas. Like football this is now a business, not sport

Tim, London,

There are certain forums where a small minority of people who dislike him contribute 90% of the negative posts.

They are usually bitter Ferrari fans.

Well done to an inspirational sportsman.

For a true picture of opinon look at silverstone this year where support for him was massive.

James Robertson, Aberdeen, Scotland

Michael Schumacher for most of his career lived in Switzerland and never denied it was for tax reasons. The Germans never minded about that.

Peter Harder, Cologne, Germany

A huge congratulations to Lewis Hamilton! a truly worthy champion. For those who don't believe he is a true british sportsman, their right, he's a world champion, not a plucky loser!
We should not expect extraordinary atheletes to behave like ordinary people.

Jonathan, Leeds, England

What's this young, very talented, driver called again, Michael Schumacher? You would think so according the 'British' fans!

Steve D, Rickmansworth,

Lewis, Lewis, Lewis ...I can only hope that you are able to handle the pressures form the media and general public to tear you down, and are able to keep your head about you with what has just happened. And, to concentrate on what really matters while your mind is being ostensibly transformed into Christmas Pudding by the rest of those in the free world who feel they need someone/thing else to put upon that lofty pedestal of F1 World Champion ... other than what you really are.
Good Luck Champ !!!

Casey Pons, Portland, OR, USA

Lewis always comes across as polite, mature, intelligent and friendly. Not nearly as arrogant as some other sports stars. Any bad feeling for him is just jealousy and small mindedness.

I was delighted with his win and we should all be proud. He has worked hard for his success.

A J, Leeds,

Typical Brits. Build someone up just so they can pull him down.
Well I home The Times will not go digging for dirt on this guy. I'm sure the red tops are already out there looking for the skeletons.

Phill, The Wirral, England

The F1 drivers giving Hamilton a hard time should take a look at what Tiger did for US Golf. He made golf a million times more marketable worldwide and significantly increased the earning potential of all golfers including both for tournaments and endorsements.

G. Coleman, NY, USA

dont really understand why people are hostile to a young lad who as we all know has worked his back side off all this years to achieve what he did in brazil on sunday ,understandably people would be angered by him moving to a tax heaven ,to secure his hard earned cash.

uchenna okafor, london, england

If I had his money, I'd be off to a tax exile location asap as well

He earned the money and like me he probably doesnt see why endless undeserving layabouts should get funded through the exhorbitant tax regime in the UK at the moment curtesy of Labour

Keep it Lewis and give none to Brown

Guy, London, UK

I love Lewis Hamilton. He is such a sweet guy - I think those who dislike him reveal something more about themselves than about Lewis. Maybe people in this country are suspicious of nice people who are skilled and talented after being bombarded by z-list celebrities who have no talent or morals.

J Fleet, Plymouth,