Lewis Hamilton has scoffed at reports Mercedes might be looking to oust him already, having only switched from McLaren over the winter.
In the past days, a rumour has been bubbling away about Niki Lauda, Mercedes’ co-owner and chairman, making a serious bid for world champion Sebastian Vettel.
The first theory was that Nico Rosberg would be the obvious victim, but there are some who think Mercedes would be foolish to pit Vettel against fellow F1 grandee Hamilton.
Hamilton, therefore, could go.
"It’s not something I need to think about," Hamilton insisted, "because it’s not going to happen.
"Nico qualified on pole in the last race, so he clearly has the speed and deserves to be here," the 2008 world champion is quoted by the Telegraph in Spain.
"I have just come to the team and I’m not doing too badly, so I doubt they will be replacing me.
"It doesn’t affect me in the slightest," the 28-year-old, referring to the rumours, continued.
"Why should it? I’m comfortable where I am. I have a solid contract and a great lawyer, as have Mercedes."