Mercedes have stood by Lewis Hamilton after he stirred up some controversy describing his experience of the Indian GP.

The world champion angered some Formula 1 fans when he told the BBC: “I’ve been to India before to a race which was strange because India was such a poor place yet we had this massive, beautiful grand prix track made in the middle of nowhere. I felt very conflicted when I went to that grand prix.”

In response to criticism over these comments, Hamilton went on to issue a statement on social media. In a subsequent post on social media, he wrote: “Hey everyone. I noticed some people are upset with my comment on India.

"First off, India is one of the most beautiful places in the world. The culture there is incredible. I have visited and always had an amazing time however whilst it is the fasted [sic] growing economy it also has a lot of poverty.

"My reference was that a Grand Prix there felt strange to drive past homeless people and then arrive in a huge arena where money was not an issue. They spent hundreds of millions on that track that is now never used. That money could have been spent on schools or homes for those in need.

"When we did have the race, nobody came because it was too expensive most likely or no interest. However I have met some amazing Indian fans."

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff has now also come out to voice his support for Hamilton to state that it was 'unbelievable' how Hamilton’s 'thoughtful' comments concerning his experience of India had been misunderstood.

“It is once again unbelievable to me how the words and the meaning of Lewis get spun out of context in this way,” said Wolff, per Sky Sports.

“He spoke with empathy about India and the painful contrast between wealth and poverty that we face while travelling the globe as sporting ambassadors. He did not criticise the nation and his words were those of a thoughtful and considered champion.

"The only fault here lies with the people who have twisted his words to mean something else entirely."

The Indian GP only featured between 2011-13 on the F1 calendar with Sebastian Vettel claiming victory all three years for Red Bull.