With the Brazilian Grand Prix coming this weekend, Seven time Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton received his honorary citizenship at Brazil’s congress chamber in Brasilia.
First promised late last year, On Monday, Sir Lewis Hamilton finally made it official and became an Honorary Citizen of Brazil.
It is clear that he loves racing in Brazil and has had multiple successes at the track. His F1 Hero, Ayrton Senna is also Brazilian, which meant it was a great honour for it to happen.
“I want to dedicate this honor to Ayrton Senna, his family and friends. I was five years old when I first saw Ayrton on the track, and that’s when I knew I wanted to be an F1 world champion. As a black driver I am aware of how much progress is needed in Formula 1, but every time I come to Brazil I am so inspired because I see so many people fighting for the same goal. We can achieve great things together,”
Lewis Hamilton
Lewis has won the Brazilian Grand Prix three times, with his last win being in November last year. He started from the very back in the sprint, impressively moving up to 5th and ultimately winning the race on Sunday.
Congressman Andre Figueiredo first made the suggestion for Lewis Hamilton to become an honorary citizen last year after the British driver celebrated his win with local fans and carried the Brazilian Flag on his victory lap.
The Brazilian people showed their love for Lewis as the Lower House Speaker Arthur Lira said Hamilton “is a hero for all Brazilians; a Briton by birth and a Brazilian by heart.”
“Thank you very much to everyone. I am impressed by the love you have shown me all these years. I did not know what to expect from this day, but you all have given me wonderful energy. I would like to thank all the Members who have moved seas and mountains to make this day possible. I love Brazil, I have always loved it, I have incredible memories even before I got there as a Formula 1 driver. The 2021 Grand Prix was one of the most special moments of my life.”
Lewis Hamilton