F1: Lewis Hamilton 'is Mercedes No 1' claims former driver

Team orders suggest former McLaren driver will be given preferential treatment over Nico Rosberg,

Lewis Hamilton: Former world champion said Mercedes debut had surpassed expectations (Getty Images)

Lewis Hamilton is getting favourable treatment at Mercedes ahead of team-mate Nico Rosberg, it has been claimed. Former driver Allan McNish says their pursuit of the world title has seen a clear order emerge before Sunday's Grand Prix in Shanghai.

Mercedes denied Nico Rosberg's requests to pass Hamilton for third place in Sepang last month and McNish said: "Just look at that conversation over the radio. Even though it's not official, there's definitely a strong focus on Hamilton being their main challenge for the championship."

McNish added: "They've opened their arms to Hamilton and they've got their arm round him."