Hamilton tells fans to drop conspiracy theories

Lewis Hamilton has suffered a troublesome start to his championship defence, with several mechanical issues and race incidents limiting his ability to challenge for wins.

Lewis Hamilton on the podium after the Russian Grand Prix.

Three-time Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton has called on fans to trust Mercedes to allay conspiracy theories against the manufacturer. 

Hamilton has suffered a troublesome start to his championship defence, with several mechanical issues and race incidents limiting his ability to challenge for wins. Meanwhile, Mercedes team-mate Nico Rosberg has enjoyed a terrific start to his campaign, winning the season's opening four Grand Prixs to lead the drivers' standings. 

The contrast in fortunes between the two drivers has seen a section of Hamilton fans accuse Mercedes of deliberately sabotaging the Brit's car. However, in an open letter to fans via his official Facebook page, Hamilton reiterated his "1000 percent" faith in Mercedes.

"I want you to know how grateful I am for all of your support," Hamilton wrote. "I'd like to ask that you please trust in my team, as I do. This is my family. These guys have been the greatest, hardest working people for me, and that is why I am now 3x World Champion."

"Please don't put any more thought into my team doing anything unjust towards me, and understand that it would be in no one's best interest for that to be the case. We've had the best three years together, and whilst it's not going to plan right now, all will unfold in its own time."

"I trust these guys 1000 percent and my mechanics are incredible, the best in the business. I respect them so please do the same. They are the guys that are going to make winning this championship possible. Thank you once again."

Hamilton is second in the drivers' standings, 43 points behind Rosberg.