Lewis Hamilton has released a statement after finding himself at the centre of a social media storm.
The sports legend was slammed after sharing a now-deleted video of himself with his three-year-old nephew and family on Christmas Day on Instagram.
He was asking the boy why he was wearing a princess dress, and saying that they were not for boys.
After being accused of shaming his young relative, Lewis has apologised unreservedly for any offence he has unintentionally caused.
He said: “Yesterday I was playing around with my nephew and realised that my words were inappropriate so I removed them.
“I meant no harm and did not mean to offend anyone at all.
“I love that my nephew feels free to express himself as we all should.”
Lewis continued: “My deepest apologies for my behaviour as I realise it is really not acceptable for anyone, no matter where you are from, to marginalise or stereotype anyone.”
Read more: Lewis Hamilton criticised for inappropriate social media post
He concluded his message with: “I have always been in support of anyone living their life exactly how they wish and I hope I can be forgiven for this lapse in judgement.
The offending 12-second video clip saw Lewis address his fans as he said, “I’m so sad right now,” before turning the camera on his smiling nephew.
He asks the young boy: “Why are you wearing a princess dress?
“Is this what you got for Christmas? Why did you ask for a princess dress for Christmas?
“Boys don’t wear princess dresses!”
The little lad then giggles as he points his wand at his 32-year-old uncle.