Lewis Hamilton's remark on Michael Schumacher accident raises eyebrows

Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton has been facing bitter criticism for reportedly saying that "all things happen for a reason" when asked for his views on seven-time champion Michael Schumacher's tragic skiing accident. (Also read: Only a miracle can save Schumacher, say doctors)

Even as Schumacher battles for his life and has been in a state of induced coma for several weeks, British racer Hamilton is believed to have made the controversial statement in an interview to UK's The Telegraph. "I always like to think that things happen for a reason and I think that this is an experience that will really show his character and depth as an individual more so than any other experience that he has had," he said.

While he also paid rich tributes to 45-year-old Schumacher, saying that the German has been a massive inspiration to a generation of aspiring racers, Hamilton's 'for a reason' remark has not gone down too well with fans. Many have blasted him on his Twitter account with one calling Hamilton "a complete idiot".

Earnest prayers around the world have been with Schumacher - father of two - since he met with an unfortunate skiing accident in the French Alps on December 29. Earlier this week, his agent said that the legendary racer has shown "small, encouraging signs of improvement."

Last week, Schumacher's management refuted reports in an Italian newspaper that the former Formula One racer is breathing independently for the first time since his fatal skiing accident.

Hamilton's recent comments on Schumacher though is not the first time he has found himself in the eye of a storm. Just days after Schumacher's skiing accident, the Briton had posted pictures of his holiday in the snow - complete with skiis and snow mobiles. It was considered by many to be insensitive and inappropriate for him to share the images on his Twitter and Instagram account considering the tragic event in his own F1 fraternity. (Key events since Schumi's accident)