Lewis Hamilton knighted in 2021 New Years Honours
Arise Sir Lewis: Mercedes-AMG racer celebrated after his record-breaking success in F1 season
Formula 1 star Lewis Hamilton has been knighted in the 2021 New Years Honours list, following a season in which he secured a record-equalling seventh world championship.
The Mercedes-AMG F1 ace was recognised with a knighthood at the end of a dominant season in which he also broke Michael Schumacher’s record of 91 race wins. Hamilton, 35, now has 95 race wins. He has also been an active campaigner for both racial equality and environmental issues, and has supported several childrens' charities.
Hamilton had been made a Member of the British Empire (MBE) in 2008 following his first championship title. There had been reports that Hamilton has previously been overlooked for a knighthood due to his tax arrangements, and Motorsport UK, British motorsport's governing body, launched a campaign to support his cause earlier this year.
Knighthoods are among the highest honours awarded, and are given for exceptional achievement in a given category. Hamilton joins Stirling Moss, Jackie Stewart and Jack Brabham as grand prix racers to have been given a knighthood. Frank Williams and Patrick Head have also been knighted for their efforts in growing Williams into one of the sport's most successful teams.
The knighthood, which carries the title Sir, is the latest recognition for Hamilton from beyond the world of motorsport. Earlier in December he won the BBC Sports Personality of the Year award for a second time he has received the honour.
Hamilton won the BBC award in a public vote ahead of Liverpool FC captain Jordan Henderson and jockey Hollie Doyle. The Stevanage driver previously won the award in 2014, and has also finished runner-up four times. He is now one of four people to have won the Sports Personality award twice, including fellow F1 champions Nigel Mansell and Damon Hill. Tennis star Andy Murray has a record three wins.
F1 legends Stirling Moss and Jackie Stewart have both also won the award, while John Surtees – the only driver to win world titles on two and four wheels – was honoured for his success in motorcycle racing.
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*How Lewis Hamilton became an F1 record breaker*
*F1 2020: Hamilton secures record-equalling seventh championship*
*Opinion: why it should be Sir Lewis for seven-time champ*
