Lewis Hamilton says the talk on the street about his tax avoidance schemes, as revealed by the 'Paradise Papers' last weekend, won't distract him from his job.
The trove of leaked information, which sheds a controversial light over the tax optimization structures of the world's elite, revealed that Hamilton had avoided a $4 million tax bill on the purchase of a Bombardier jet, through the use of a complicated network of off-shore entities.
Speaking at a Petronas press conference on Wednesday in Sao Paulo ahead of next weekend's Brazilian GP, the 2017 world champion said his "core values" remain intact despite the allegations.
"I've come from this great period of time with my family and friends that have this huge wave of positivity," he said.
"Nothing can really dent that. I am solely focused on the race this weekend, and we have two races to go. That doesn't distract me from my core values and what I am here to do."
Hamilton's representative said in a statement that registering a jet in the tax haven of the Isle of Man is perfectly legal.
"As a global sportsman who pays tax in a large number of countries, Lewis relies upon a team of professional advisers who manage his affairs.
"Those advisers have assured Lewis that everything is above board and the matter is now in the hands of his lawyers."
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