Stroll argues his own case against critics

Lance Stroll insists he has no inhibitions about racing in Formula 1, claiming he is "ready" for the big time, here and now.

The 18-year-old career at the top level got off to a rocky last week, with the Canadian dropping his Williams multiple times into the gravel trap, ultimately damaging the FW40 and depriving the team from a full day of running.

Many believe the sophisticated and powerful machinery is revealing the limits of a driver who has accessed Formula 1 thanks to his father's fortune rather than on his skills an merits.

But Stroll insists he is where he deserves to be.

"I know I'm ready," he protested to the Journal de Montreal newspaper in Barcelona.

"I won championships before I arrived here. I have no doubt that I deserve my place in F1.

"To get a super license, you must have earned the 40 points necessary, and I did that. People have a right to their opinion but I don't read what they say. My job is to drive a racing car.

"I worked hard to get here."

Massa sticks up for rookie Stroll

Team mate Felipe Massa urged patience towards the teenager, underlining his need to learn, while Lewis Hamilton underlined the fact that F1's new regulations have made it very difficult time for a rookie driver to debut in F1.

"I don't think that way," Stroll responded.

"For sure I lack experience, but I feel good even though the cars have an exceptional amount of grip and are faster in the corners than before.

"F1 is the pinnacle of motor sport and I have prepared myself accordingly. I have no concerns about my ability to perform," he said.

GALLERY: F1 drivers' wives and girlfriends

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.