Lewis Hamilton has defended claims he disrespected seven-time F1 world champion Michael Schumacher.

The comments, published by German tabloid Kolner Express, quoted the new triple world champion as comparing his achievements to Schumacher, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest Formula One drivers of all time.

“I’ve never done the things that Michael did to win my titles,” Hamilton is quoted as saying. “I won mine with my natural abilities only.”

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Hamilton took to Instagram on Friday to deny the claims, highlighting the retired driver’s legacy and wishing him well in his recovery after being seriously injured while skiing in the French Alps.

“To all the Michael Schumacher fans, I want you to know how big a fan and admirer of Michael I am,” Hamilton captioned the post.

“I grew up watching him from the early days through to his seventh title. 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.

“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.

“I keep him in my prayers as a fellow driver wishing for his recovery.”

It’s been reported that Hamilton could have been commenting on mixed sentiment about Schumacher’s wheel-to-wheel tactics, or rumours of favouritism within Ferrari and tyre supplier Bridgestone.

Hamilton’s comments were also slammed by the head of Schumacher’s fan club.

The 46-year-old is recovering from a horrific skiing injury, which left him in an induced coma for 189 days.

The incident occurred in late 2013 and despite reports his condition is slowly improving, Schumacher still requires frequent care.