Hamilton hits out ahead of Turkish GP

LONDON, England -- McLaren driver Lewis Hamilton has hit back at his critics ahead of Sunday's Turkish Grand Prix, saying: "I'm not Superman."

The 23-year-old Briton is facing the biggest test of his fledgling Formula One career after falling nine points behind world champion Kimi Raikkonen in the drivers' standings with four races gone.

Hamilton won the season-opening Australian Grand Prix but his highest finish since has been third as Ferrari have begun to dominate.

"A few people have questioned my commitment and my ability to drive," said Hamilton. "I'm not Superman but I believe I have the ability to win a world championship.

"Everybody makes mistakes. I'm sure Nelson Mandela, at 90-odd, still makes mistakes. That's life. What people say about my performances does not really bother me -- what does concern me is doing the job to the best of my abilities.

"Once we get everything right, our car is as quick as any. Then it is down to the driver to pull out extra bits of time. I think I can do that," he added.

Hamilton will be looking to cut back the points gap on Raikkonen on Sunday, but last year he could only finish fifth in the Istanbul race with Ferrari pulling off a double through winner Felipe Massa and Raikkonen.