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Wolff: Hamilton 'thoughtful' comments on India 'spun out of context'

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff has defended Lewis Hamilton after the social media backlash that hit the Brit following his comments on F1's former Grand Prix in India.

The five-time world champion said he had felt "very conflicted" about racing in India given the contrast he observed between the lavish settings surrounding the Indian GP and the country's perceived level of poverty.

Angry Indian fans perceived those comments as derogatory, forcing Hamilton to take to Twitter and Instagram to clarify his thoughts.

Hamilton gets backlash after India 'poor place' comments

As far as Wolff is concerned, it was a case of some "thoughtful" feelings expressed by the Mercedes driver that were completely misconstrued and taken out of context.

"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 in a statement.

"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."

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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.