Hamilton wants better legacy than Schumacher
Despite showing a reluctance to wade into the rekindled 'Rascasse scandal' of 2006, the McLaren driver admitted in Monaco that Schumacher's reputation as a cheat is not one he wants to emulate.
"When I think about history, it is not just about me, it is about how my family raised me, where we came from," British newspapers quote the 25-year-old as saying in Monaco.
"For that to be tainted by something like that would devastate me."
When asked if he wants to be thought of in a better light than seven time world champion Schumacher, the 2008 world champion admitted: "Absolutely.
"I want to be remembered as a fair driver, a clean driver, one who always drove with his heart, who battled through thick and thin to score the points and the championships I will hopefully earn."
He also denied he is now desperate to get back on terms with his teammate Jenson Button, who despite not always looking as quick as Hamilton has won two races and is leading the world championship.
"I don't feel I'm at the point where I need to 'turn it around' because what needs turning around is just my fortunes," insisted Hamilton.