Lewis Hamilton has hit back at critics after falling nine points behind world championship leader Kimi Raikkonen in the standings.

The 23-year-old is under pressure to perform this season following a stellar debut in 2007 that saw him go so close to winning the world title.

But the McLaren driver has struggled behind the Ferraris since winning the Australian Grand Prix on the opening day of the season and faces his biggest test yet as a Formula One driver.

"A few people have questioned my commitment, my ability to drive," Hamilton told The Sun.