Lewis Hamilton has been strongly tipped for the Knighthood honor after equaling Michael Schumacher’s records. Hamilton won his 7th world title in Turkey.
With his win at Istanbul Park, Hamilton became the most successful Formula 1 driver of all time. Recent reports following his win have suggested that Hamilton will receive the award in the New Year Honors list.
Lewis Hamilton’s call for Knighthood has been backed by several individuals, including Boris Johnson and Sir Andy Murray. Sir Jackie Stewart also supported the call and stated that he is a top-line sportsman and certainly deserves the honor.
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During the pre-event Mercedes press conference at Bahrain, Hamilton was asked about the possibility of receiving the honor.
He said, “Well, firstly I would never, ever turn down the royal family. But it would be an incredible honor. There’s no greater honor than your country recognizing you and honoring you with such an award.”
READ MORE- Andy Murray Explains Why Lewis Hamilton ‘Definitely Deserves’ a Knighthood
Lewis Hamilton claims the honor is very surreal
Lewis Hamilton stated that he is a big fan of the Royal family. He admitted it is very special to him that they are willing to take a moment to acknowledge all that he has achieved in the field of Formula One.
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“It’s very surreal to hear that when you’ve grown up watching the news like everyone else, and then your name is mentioned in the house of lords, the house of commons, or in parliament,” he further added.
However, “There’s a lot of talk so I haven’t thought that much about it,” he further stated. UK Prime Minister and the Royal Family offered their congratulations to the Briton after he clinched the championship title.
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Johnson tweeted, “An impressive victory – well done Lewis Hamilton! You have made us all so proud.” Meanwhile, the Royal Family’s official Twitter account said, “Congratulations to record-equalling seven-time F1 world championship title winner Lewis Hamilton – along with a record number of race wins, what an incredible achievement!”
After his win at Istanbul, Hamilton expressed that he has a bigger purpose in Formula 1. He is widely speculated to extend his contract with Mercedes at the end of this season. He will look forward to a record-breaking 8th championship with the Silver Arrows.