SAN FRANCISCO, November 23, (THEWILL) – British racing driver Lewis Hamilton believes it will be his “happiest day ever” if it turns out that he is knighted in recognition of his remarkable and inspiring achievements.
On the heels of the Brit picking his record-equalling seventh Formula 1 World title, and at a time when Hamilton has used his status and star power to amplify global voices raised against racial inequality and injustice, calls have been made for the 35-year-old to be knighted in the Queen’s new year’s honours list.
Reports monitored by THEWILL have claimed that Hamilton will be so recognised, especially since after extensive behind the scenes investigation of his tax status, it has been acknowledged that Hamilton pays his taxes in the United Kingdom despite his Monaco residency.
Questions over his tax status and the traditional reluctance within the sports honours committee about knighting still-active athletes had created a stumbling block to his hopes of a knighthood but, it was said that the Prime Minister Boris Johnson intervened on both counts to clear the path towards him getting the honour.
The Mercedes driver is now most likely to follow the likes of high-profile sporting figures such as Andy Murray, Chris Hoy, Bradley Wiggins, Alastair Cook, Mo Farah and Tony McCoy who have been knighted in recent years.
In the class of motorsports knights, Hamilton will come in at eighth alongside Henry Segrave, Malcolm Campbell, Jack Brabham, Frank Williams, Stirling Moss, Jackie Stewart and Patrick Head.
“Like everyone, I’ve grown up to respect the Royal Family,” the racing pro enthused recently.
“If one day I am honoured to be up in front of the queen again, it will be the happiest day ever to see her again because she’s an icon, such an incredible individual.”
Specifically referencing knighthood, Hamilton noted how he did not feel qualified enough. “When I think about being knighted, I think of people like my grandad who served in the war. And Captain Tom [Moore], who waited 100 years.
“Then you have these doctors and nurses who are saving lives at this hardest time ever. I don’t look at myself as an unsung hero. I haven’t saved anybody.
“It is an incredible honour that a small group of people have had bestowed upon them.”
Hamilton was awarded an MBE [Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire] after winning his first world title in 2008.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
