Martha Hall Findlay. (Chris Roussakis/ QMI Agency file photo)

Former Liberal MP and leadership hopeful Martha Hall Findlay apologized to Justin Trudeau on Sunday for making waves by criticizing his understanding of the middle class during a debate in Mississauga, Ont.

"There are some who believe that I overstepped a line in the leadership debate (Saturday). To Justin, his family and to those who were offended, I apologize," Hall Findlay said in a statement on her website.

"My comments were not meant to be personal... I have the greatest respect for Justin's passion, enthusiasm and commitment."

During Saturday's Liberal leadership debate, Hall Findlay said she found it "a little challenging to understand" that Trudeau appreciates "real challenges facing Canadians."

"You yourself have admitted that you actually don't belong to the middle class," she said.

Trudeau subsequently shot back at Hall Findlay and received acclaim from political observers who believed her comments were a huge mistake.