Lewis Hamilton receives knighthood days after losing F1 title
36-year-old earns honourary title of "Sir" after being knighted by Prince of Wales
Lewis Hamilton picked up a new title only days after losing one on the track.
The seven-time Formula One champion received a knighthood on Wednesday at Windsor Castle but declined to speak to the media afterward.
In a controversial finish on Sunday, Max Verstappen won his first world championship at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix with a pass of Hamilton on the final lap of a riveting season. It denied Hamilton a record-breaking eighth title.
Hamilton gets the honorary title of "Sir" after being knighted by the Prince of Wales for services to motorsports.
The 36-year-old Briton was joined by his mother, Carmen Lockhart. When congratulated on his award, Hamilton said: "Thank you."
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Three other F1 drivers have been knighted: Jack Brabham, Stirling Moss and Jackie Stewart. Hamilton is the first to be awarded while still competing in the sport.
Mercedes filed protests immediately after the finish but they were rejected.
The FIA said Tuesday a "detailed analysis and clarification exercise" will take place to draw lessons and provide clarity "to preserve the competitive nature of our sport."
The body said the incidents on Sunday have "generated significant misunderstanding and reactions from Formula 1 teams, drivers and fans, an argument that is currently tarnishing the image of the championship."
