Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton, of Britain, reacts following the Formula One US Grand Prix auto race at the Circuit of the Americas, Sunday, Nov. 3, 2019, in Austin, Texas.
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ERIC GAY / AP / SIPA
Lewis Hamilton was knighted in the UK, promoted to the rank of knight on the New Year's Honors list, after tying Michael Schumacher's record of seven Formula 1 world titles.
The first and only black driver in the premier class of motorsport, 35, equaled Germany's Michael Schumacher in an exceptional 2020 season, shortened due to the pandemic.
Last month, a group of British parliamentarians called on Prime Minister Boris Johnson to elevate the pilot to the rank of knight.
"Dream the impossible"
Coming from a modest background, Hamilton had dedicated his victory of November 15, in Turkey, "to children and to all those for whom it is important to see this", telling them: "dream the impossible, pursue this dream, never doubt yourself ”.
Hamilton, a resident of the Principality of Monaco, has been in the hot seat in the past for his tax situation, but has argued that he pays a significant amount of tax in Britain.
The beloved and controversial Mercedes driver has become a strong advocate for equality, diversity, animal welfare and the environment, and has made several strong statements this year on human rights, democracy and the environment. fight against racism.
The UK New Year's Honors list recognizes outstanding achievement in various fields including sport, entertainment and politics, as well as the contributions of a large number of ordinary citizens.
This year, many prizes have been awarded to those who seek solutions to the problems posed by the coronavirus as the pandemic drags on.
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Lewis Hamilton