F1 champion Hamilton slams "selfish" people amid coronavirus outbreak

The COVID-19 outbreak has forced many countries to enforce lockdowns and urge social-distancing measures, as the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases rocketed past the 320,000 mark, while the death toll stands at over 14,000.

Mercedes driver Hamilton's latest comments were posted on his social media accounts and were a response to news coverage showing scenes of crowds gathering worldwide, despite advice from their governments.

"I'm so sad to hear of the amount of deaths happening around the world," he said on social media.

"I know most of us are limited with the knowledge of why and how this has happened.

"There is nothing we can do about it either way except to try to isolate ourselves, stop ourselves from catching it and spreading it.

"There are people out there still going to clubs and bars and large gatherings which I personally feel is totally irresponsible and selfish."

He added that he's praying for medical staff and other "heroes" who are putting their lives at risk.

"I'm praying for my family's safety each day but I'm also praying for you out there.

"I'm praying for those working at the local stores, deliverers, doctors and nurses who put their own health at risk to help others and keep the countries running.

"Those are the heroes. Please stay safe people."

Over the weekend, Hamilton released another statement on his social media accounts insisting that he was fit and healthy and continuing to train in self-isolation, after he was pictured at event a few weeks with people who have since tested positive for COVID-19.

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Hamilton was one of the most vocal drivers during the cancelled Australian Grand Prix weekend, claiming it was "shocking" that F1 was going ahead with the event on the Thursday before it was eventually scrapped.

The 2020 F1 season looks set to come under further delay, as the Baku race in June is now expected to be postponed.