Lewis Hamilton knighted by Prince Charles days after F1 heartbreak

He is the fourth F1 driver to be knighted

Sir Lewis Hamilton has been knighted for his services to motorsport and in recognition of a spectacular career in Formula 1 just days after he controversially lost out on a record eighth world title. The Mercedes driver was dubbed a knight by the Prince of Wales at Windsor Castle on Wednesday (15 December) during a investiture ceremony. The 36-year-old was joined in attendance by his mother - Carmen Lockhart - as the pair had pictures taken in the castle's quadrangle. Upon being congratulated on his award, Hamilton said: "Thank you." Hamilton is the fourth F1 driver to be knighted, with Sir Jack Brabham, Sir Stirling Moss and Sir Jackie Stewart all being awarded the honour as well. However, he is the first driver to be dubbed a knight while still competing in the sport. His knighthood comes just days after rival Max Verstappen won his maiden Formula 1 world title in controversial fashion, with his season-long battle with Hamilton coming down to just one-lap in Abu Dhabi. When Williams driver Nicholas Latifi crashed into the barriers late into the race, the safety car was deployed at the Yas Marina Circuit. This saw Hamilton's significant lead drastically reduced, with Verstappen boasting the advantage as he was using fresher tyres. The decision to allow lapped cars to pass the safety car was extremely controversial, and Sir Lewis - who looked destined to win a record eighth world title - said on the car radio "This has been manipulated, man", but was later complementary to the Dutchman in post-race interviews. After the race, he told Sky Sports: "Congratulations to Max and his team. I think we did an amazing job this year. Everyone back at the factory and here worked so hard in this most difficult of seasons." It remains to be seen whether Mercedes will follow through with their decision to appeal after they lodged an intention to appeal the verdict of the second protest dismissal, which relates to the Safety Car protocol. Related links:

• Lewis Hamilton says race was ‘manipulated’ in unheard team radio message
• Jeremy Clarkson rubs salt in Hamilton’s wounds after controversial Verstappen win
• Hamilton’s brother slams FIA as a ‘disgrace to the sport’ after Verstappen clinches title