Lewis Hamilton is currently one of the most successful Formula 1 driver of all time. He has even surpassed Ferrari driver Michael Schumacher‘s records by beating his 91 wins.
The Mercedes driver was awarded a knighthood during the UK New Year’s honours list.
This list is created to recognize the achievements of people belonging to different fields. This could include show business, sports, and even politics. The list also brings to notice, the contributions of citizens to society.
Recommended by lawmakers
According to reports, Prime Minister Boris Johnson received calls from various British lawmakers recommending the driver for a knighthood.
Currently, Hamilton lives in Monaco and has been criticized for his tax arrangements. He, however, has claimed that he pays his taxes in Britain.
Hamilton is currently the only black driver in the sport. He grew up in social housing as his family members were immigrants hailing from the Caribbean.
Hamilton speaks on various social issues
The Mercedes driver has been very vocal about his support for equality, diversity, human rights, and even the environment. He has even made several key statements related to democracy and racism.
According to the Daily Mail newspaper, Boris Johnson had “bent the rules” for Hamilton to be eligible for the award considering his tax concerns.
Hamilton’s citation mentioned his sporting achievements along with his “charitable and philanthropic contributions in the UK and overseas”.
Many of Hamilton’s followers believe that the driver’s achievements have not been recognized enough. They were ecstatic with the Brit’s knighthood.
F1 CEO believes Hamilton deserves it
“Lewis is a true giant of our sport and his influence is huge both in and out of a car,” said Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali. “What he has achieved is phenomenal with still more to come.”
Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff goes on to claim that Hamilton is the most successful British sportsperson of this era. He also added that the knighthood proves that Hamilton is receiving the recognition that he deserves.
“The UK can be very proud to have a champion and ambassador of the caliber of Sir Lewis Hamilton,” added the Austrian.
After the late Australian Jack Brabham, Stirling Moss, and triple champion Jackie Stewart, Hamilton is the fourth driver to be knighted.
He is also the only driver to receive the honor while still racing.
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