Those drivers won’t be smiling after hearing Hamilton’s comments.

But it’s a slippery slope when that confidence becomes arrogance, and that arrogance turns to bitterness — particularly when it stops becoming about yourself and starts to become about fellow competitors.

In just two sentences, Hamilton managed to insult three drivers — a pretty impressive feat it must be said, regardless of how condescending the sentences may have been. In an interview with German magazine Sport Bild, the Brit first took aim at four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel, questioning his credentials before having a go at two other drivers.

“I have a lot of respect for him (Vettel), but it’s difficult to assess how good he really is,” said Hamilton.

“He’s never been in a team with someone like Fernando Alonso, but always with people like Mark Webber, who was not on his level, and Kimi Raikkonen, who is no longer at the peak of his performance.”

His comments come in the wake of recent remarks in which the 30-year-old was accused of belittling the achievements of seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher.

Vettel and Rosberg will be hopeful of challenging Hamilton for the title in 2016.Source:AFP

“I’ve never done the things that Michael did to win my titles,” Hamilton was quoted as saying almost two weeks ago. “I won mine with my natural abilities only.”

He later clarified these comments saying he was a big admirer of Schumacher, and in no way intended to disparage his legacy.

Former McLaren teammate Jensen Button warned Hamilton last week about letting his recent success inflate his ego too much, saying: “He’s pretty quickly becoming arrogant.”

The Mercedes driver spoke to Sport Bild about this perceived arrogance, saying it was more a case of believing in his own abilities.

“I would not call it self-confidence, but extreme faith in myself,” said Hamilton.

“That is the key to success.” “Before my debut in 2007, I knew it would be hard to beat Fernando (Alonso), but I also knew that I could do it.

“I still remember before the first race, Ron Dennis (McLaren chairman) said I shouldn’t be too disappointed if Alonso beats me really badly. But I knew that it wouldn’t happen.”

Hamilton has clearly been celebrating his championship in style since he wrapped up the 2015 title, saying heavy partying was to blame for him crashing into a parked car in the early hours while in Monaco last week.