Lewis Hamilton, 37, has a close relationship with Brazil, domestic of his boyhood idol, the past due champion Ayrton Senna, and scene of his first formulation One identify in 2008

Brazil named system One superstar Lewis Hamilton an honorary citizen Monday, feting the British seven-time champion with a ceremony in Congress. Hamilton, 37, has a close courting with Brazil, home of his boyhood idol, the overdue champion Ayrton Senna, and scene of his first components One name in 2008. carrying an electric-blue healthy, Hamilton obtained a certificate and a medal inside the inexperienced and yellow of the Brazilian flag from the speaker of the decrease house of Congress, Arthur Lira.

"Seven-time F1 international champion Hamilton, British by means of delivery but Brazilian at heart," Lira said to loud cheers.

Hamilton, who said he become venerated, spoke emotionally of Senna, a three-time F1 champion (1988, 1990, 1991) who died in a coincidence on the San Marino Grand Prix in 1994.

"I really want to devote this honor to Ayrton Senna," the Mercedes driving force said.

"When i used to be five years vintage, I saw Ayrton race for the primary time, and that became the moment I knew I wanted to be a global champion like him."

Hamilton, who has referred to as Brazil a 2nd domestic, has won the Sao Paulo Grand Prix 3 times (2016, 2018, 2021).

but his finest memory there may be possibly from 2008, whilst he surpassed Germany's Timo Glock on the final nook of the remaining lap to complete fifth and pip Brazil's own Felipe Massa for the driver's name.

The dramatic end made Hamilton the youngest F1 champ in records and primary black motive force to win the title.