Hamilton says he is 'cool' with Massa despite recent criticism from the Brazilian

Massa has been critical of the McLaren driver after clashing in Singapore and again at the Japanese Grand Prix, where the duo made contact as the Ferrari driver tried to overtake his rival.

Despite Massa's comments, Hamilton said on Thursday in Korea he still has no issues with the Brazilian.

"Of course, the situation has not been great for some time now, but I think I've always had respect for Felipe and I still do today regardless of the negative comments that he is coming out with," said Hamilton.

"It is easy in this sport when you are competitive and in the heat of the moment to say things you don't mean.

"Whether or not he does mean them, regardless, I have tried to show respect and particularly in the last race... I am really sorry for that, I really didn't see him, and I saw the replay: he was quite far up alongside me, out of my mirrors and I could not see anything, so by the time I saw him it was too late.

"I've been I the wrong place in the last few races. I had the car to be a bit further ahead. Perhaps if I was doing the right job I wouldn't be in this situation with Felipe, but all respect due and I hope in the future we can put our guards down and he can be cool with me. I am cool with him."

Reacting to Hamilton's comments, Massa said he had nothing to add about his problems with him, and vowed to move on.

"I have nothing to say. The only thing is that, we always need to think about moving forward. I really saw many mistakes from him, and that is it. I tried to speak to him, he didn't want it, and to be honest I don't care anymore. I will not go and speak to him. I will carry on doing my job like always, so it is okay. I always look to the future."

The Ferrari also driver ruled out complaining officially to the FIA.

"No, no. For sure, the only thing that is important is to be consistent. We saw some penalties, even for less things than the last race, and even Lewis has also excused himself. So, that is the only thing - to be consistent with the FIA penalties. There is nothing more than that to say."

And, amid suggestions from McLaren boss Martin Whitmarsh that mirror rules may need tweaking in order to allow drivers to see better what's behind them, Massa said he had no problems with the current mirrors.

"I can see everything, no problem. In my car I don't have a problem to be honest, so..."