SHOCKING: Lewis Hamilton And other Legendary F1 Drivers who have been knighted……..Read more
Four Legendary F1 Drivers, Including Lewis Hamilton, Who Have Been Knighted
Formula 1 has long been regarded as the pinnacle of motorsport, and the UK has produced some of the most successful drivers in the history of the sport. Among them, a select few have achieved the highest honor bestowed by their nation—the title of “Sir.” Knighthood is a recognition not just of success on the track but also of the broader contributions these drivers have made to the sport and to society. This article takes a closer look at four F1 legends who have received this prestigious honor.
1. Sir Lewis Hamilton
Lewis Hamilton, the most successful driver in the history of Formula 1, is the latest addition to this elite group. With seven World Championships to his name, Hamilton has broken nearly every record in the sport. He made a stunning debut in 2007, narrowly missing out on the championship in his rookie season but making a massive impact with his sheer speed and determination.
In 2008, Hamilton won his first World Championship in dramatic fashion, becoming the youngest F1 World Champion at the time. His services to motorsport were recognized in 2009 when he was awarded the Member of the British Empire (MBE) by Queen Elizabeth II. However, his achievements did not stop there. After equaling Michael Schumacher’s record of seven World Championships in 2020, Hamilton was knighted in 2021 by then-Prince of Wales, Charles, in a ceremony attended by his mother, Linda. This honor solidified his status not just as a sporting icon but as a national treasure.
2. Sir Jackie Stewart
Before Lewis Hamilton, Sir Jackie Stewart was the most successful British driver in Formula 1. Known as the “Flying Scot,” Stewart won three World Championships in 1969, 1971, and 1973. His career was marked by his relentless pursuit of safety in the sport, which was notoriously dangerous during his time.
Stewart’s contributions to Formula 1 were recognized early on when he was awarded the Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1971 after securing his second World Championship. His knighthood came much later, in 2001, in recognition of his tireless work to improve safety standards in the sport, which has undoubtedly saved countless lives. Stewart remains an influential figure in the world of motorsport and continues to advocate for safety in racing.
3. Sir Jack Brabham
Sir Jack Brabham is perhaps one of the most unique figures in F1 history. The Australian driver won three World Championships in 1959, 1960, and 1966, but what sets him apart is that he won his third title driving a car he designed himself. Brabham remains the only driver in F1 history to win a championship in a car bearing his name.
His remarkable achievements were recognized by his country when he was awarded an OBE after his third World Championship. Brabham was later knighted in 1979 for his contributions to motorsport, making him the first F1 driver to be knighted. His legacy lives on not only through his own success but also through the Brabham name, which remains iconic in the world of motorsport.
4. Sir Stirling Moss
Sir Stirling Moss is often regarded as the greatest driver never to have won a World Championship. Despite this, his talent and skill behind the wheel earned him immense respect and admiration. Moss raced for some of the most iconic teams in F1, including Mercedes, Maserati, and Lotus, during his career from 1948 to 1962.
Moss won 16 Grand Prix races and stood on the podium 24 times, often competing against some of the sport’s greatest drivers. His contribution to motorsport was recognized in 2000 when he was knighted during the New Year Honors. Moss continued to be an ambassador for the sport long after his retirement and is remembered as one of the true gentlemen of racing.
The knighthood is a reflection of the extraordinary impact these drivers have had on Formula 1 and beyond. Their contributions have not only shaped the history of the sport but have also inspired generations of drivers and fans alike. Sir Lewis Hamilton, Sir Jackie Stewart, Sir Jack Brabham, and Sir Stirling Moss represent the pinnacle of excellence, both on and off the track.
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