IT’S SIR LEW

SPORTING HERO HAMILTON LINED UP FOR KNIGHTHOOD IN NEW YEAR HONOURS LIST

LEWIS HAMILTON has been tipped for a knighthood, with a former minister saying it is ‘ long overdue’ for Britain’s ‘biggest sporting star’.

The Formula One driver (pictured) – who has won a record-equalling seventh world championship – will be rewarded with the accolade at Boris Johnson’s request in the New Year Honours, according to The Sun. Lord Hain, who chairs the All Party Parliamentary Group for Formula One, has twice written to the prime minister calling for Hamilton, 35, to become Sir Lewis. ‘If it is correct, I will be thrilled to see Lewis joining the pantheon of sporting knights because he is right up there with Sir Bradley Wiggins, Sir Mo Farah, Sir Andy Murray, Sir Alastair Cook and the others,’ the former Labour cabinet minister said.

‘It is long overdue. The fact that his background is so humble, and the fact that he is black, just adds to his incredible achievement. He is a role model for young girls and boys whatever their backgrounds, whatever their colour, to be able to reach for the sky.’ Former F1 world champion Damon Hill said: ‘It is also a recognition of his stance on equality, antiracism and environmental issues. He is a fantastic ambassador and a knighthood will only increase his opportunities to do that work.’ After Hamilton’s latest title win, Mr Johnson was told it would be ‘totally wrong’ if he lost out on a knighthood as a result of living in tax haven Monaco. Motorsport UK chairman David Richards sent a letter to No.10 explaining that the driver’s tax status ‘has been misunderstood’.