Lewis Hamilton: From Track Champion to Knighted Legend

In a dazzling ceremony at Windsor Castle, Sir Lewis Hamilton has been knighted, celebrating his extraordinary contributions to the world of Formula One.

This prestigious honor comes just days after a dramatic and contentious finish to the season, where he narrowly missed out on claiming an unprecedented eighth world title.

The Prince of Wales bestowed the honor upon him, marking a significant milestone in Hamilton's illustrious career.

Hamilton, radiant with joy, shared the moment with his mother, Carmen Lockhart.

The two posed for photographs in the castle's picturesque quadrangle, capturing a moment that undoubtedly meant the world to both of them.

When asked about the knighthood, Hamilton simply expressed his gratitude with a heartfelt “thank you.”

This isn't Hamilton's first brush with royalty.

He has had the honor of meeting Queen Elizabeth II, who presented him with an MBE back in 2009.

Their interactions have been memorable, to say the least.

During one private lunch, the Queen offered him some rather amusing dining etiquette advice.

Hamilton recounted this delightful experience on Graham Norton's show in 2015, sharing how the Queen guided him on how to engage in conversation during the meal.

“I was excited to talk to her,” Hamilton recalled, “but she pointed to my left and said, ‘No, you speak that way first, and I'll speak this way and then I'll come back to you.'”

Once he got the chance to chat, he found her to be quite charming.

“She is a sweet woman,” he said, reminiscing about their discussions on weekend activities, homes, and music.

“She's really cool.”

Hamilton's connections to the royal family extend beyond the Queen.

He has crossed paths with Prince Harry multiple times, including during one of Harry's final royal duties in March 2020.

On that occasion, they participated in a light-hearted pit-stop speed test, where the Duke of Sussex surprisingly outperformed the racing champion.

“What a stitch-up!”

Hamilton exclaimed, jokingly suggesting that the game was rigged in favor of his royal guest.

At 36 years old, Hamilton's achievements in motorsport are nothing short of legendary.

He was recognized in the New Year Honours list following a record-breaking year, where he surpassed Michael Schumacher's all-time victory tally and matched his record with a seventh world title.