Lewis Hamilton is one of the most successful drivers in Formula 1 history, and one of the most successful sportspersons in his country’s history. After his championship win at the Turkish Grand Prix, the calls for Hamilton’s knighthood have increased.
The Briton has been strongly recommended for receiving the privilege in the New Year’s Honor list. Sir Andy Murray also backed up the calls for honoring him. Murray has won the three grand slams along with two Olympic gold medals and was knighted in 2016. He was awarded the honor for his services to tennis and charity.
Andy Murray said, “I’m not necessarily all for sportspeople being given knighthoods for what we do.
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“But in terms of what he has achieved as an athlete, of course he deserves it.
“As a sportsperson, he’s one of the most successful sportspeople in the history of the country. He’s an amazing driver,” Murray added.
“He supports some great causes as well away from the racing track, so yes I would say he definitely deserves it in terms of his success.”
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Lewis Hamilton is widely tipped for the Knighthood honor
Reports suggest that Hamilton will receive a knighthood from Queen Elizabeth II in recognition of his achievements in 2020. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson apparently personally recommended Hamilton for the honor.
According to the reports, “It is understood that Motorsport UK chairman David Richards and the All Party Parliamentary Group on Formula One have written to Prime Minister Boris Johnson calling for Hamilton to be given the honour.”
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Hamilton has used his influence and platform as a catalyst to bring positive change. He has worked towards dealing with social issues such as discrimination, children’s charities and environmental issues. According to Richards, this is what makes him deserving.
“That for me is a sign of a champion. Someone who uses the platform for sport to promote other things that are far more important than just winning on a Sunday,” he further added.
Sir Jackie Stewart received his knighthood in 2001. He was the country’s most successful driver before Hamilton.
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Sir Stewart said, “He’s now a seriously top-line sportsman in the world and that’s a wonderful thing to have, and the fact that he is British is the most important thing of all, with regards to the knighthood is concerned.”
Lewis Hamilton has done some wonderful things on and off the track. He is one of the most inspiring drivers of his era and certainly deserves to receive the honor.