WINDSOR, England (AP) – Lewis Hamilton clinched a new title just days after losing one on the track.
The seven-time Formula 1 champion was knighted at Windsor Castle on Wednesday but declined to speak to the media afterward.
In a controversial finish on Sunday, Max Verstappen won his first world title at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix with a pass from Hamilton on the final lap of an exciting season. It denied Hamilton a record-breaking eighth title.
Hamilton receives the honorary title of “Sir” after being knighted by the Prince of Wales for services to motorsport.
The 36-year-old Briton of Grenadian descent was accompanied by his mother Carmen Lockhart. When congratulating him on his award, Hamilton said, “Thank you.”
Three other F1 drivers were knighted: Jack Brabham, Stirling Moss and Jackie Stewart. Hamilton is the first award winner still to compete in the sport.
The Mercedes driver was aiming for his fifth title in a row and eighth place overall in order to gain an advantage over Michael Schumacher. Using the safety car after a late crash at the Yas Marina Circuit destroyed the lead Hamilton had built over its Red Bull rival, and Verstappen had the late advantage of using fresher tires.
Mercedes filed a protest immediately after the finish.
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