Lewis Hamilton honored by the Queen with the title of Member of the British Empire

Lewis Hamilton closed 2008 with another title, this time awarded to him by Queen Elizabeth II who rewarded him on the eve of 2009 by naming him a member of the British Empire.

Hamilton does not become "Sir", because the title conferred on him is of a lower rank than that of Knight, but in any case he rightfully enters into a small elite of sportsmen like David Beckham, without forgetting Gianfranco Zola, one of the few foreigners who can ' boast this title.

"It's a great privilege to receive this recognition. It's the best surprise of 2008 and undoubtedly very positive for me. The support I've received across the UK has been fantastic and has given me great motivation," he said. the Formula 1 world champion.