British Formula 1 driver Lewis Hamilton was awarded a knighthood by Prince Charles on Wednesday in recognition of his distinguished sporting career. The 36-year-old driver was awarded the Medal of the Master during an inauguration ceremony at Windsor Castle in the UK. Nearly 12 months later, as is customary every time the year ends, Queen Elizabeth II announced the list of people who would be awarded the title of nobility.
And on that list, in addition to the heads of national security, those responsible for foreign trade or people dedicated to combating COVID-19 or humanitarian aid, one name stood out: Lewis Hamilton. The seven-time F1 world champion arrived at Windsor Castle on his mother’s arm, in a dark suit, white shirt, tie-like brooch and signature braids he had recently donned into a ponytail.
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As protocol dictated, the young Englishman put his right knee on a golden red velvet footstool in front of Charles of England, who put a sword on his right shoulder for his investment as a knight of the British Empire. After receiving the title, the feud with his mother Carmen stood in the courtyard of the castle.
The Mercedes driver, the only driver of African descent in the sport, became the fourth Formula 1 driver to be jockeyed after Britain’s Stirling Moss (1929-2020), triple champion Jackie Stewart, and Australian Jack Brabham (1926-2014). Plus the only person to get the award while he was still competing.
Cyclist Bradley Wiggins, Olympic gold medalist Mo Farah, two-time Wimbledon champion Andy Murray and England cricketer Aleister Cook are other active athletes. According to the international portals, Sir Lewis Hamilton will also be present at the end-of-season FIA Awards Gala in Paris.
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