Seven-time Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton has been awarded a knighthood in the United Kingdom New Year Honors List. The award was given to him this year after an exceptional performance as Hamilton won his seventh world title this year, equaling Michael Schumacher’s record.
Hamilton won his first world title in 2008. He later won six world championships to match Schumacher’s record between 2014 and 2020, the year of his domination.
He equalled Schumacher’s record after a surprise performance at the Turkish Grand Prix in November 2020, also his 10th win of the season. In October 2020, Hamilton surpassed Michael Schumacher’s all-time record of 91 wins, taking his total to 95 wins.
UK knighthood and damehood honours have been conferred since medieval times and under it, the title ‘Sir’ for men and ‘Dame’ for women is applied.
Knighthood and damehood are traditionally bestowed by Queen Elizabeth II of England with the touch of a sword. Former Formula One recipients include Sterling Moss, Frank Williams, Jackie Stewart, Patrick Head and Jack Brehm.
