Congress in Brazil on Thursday approved a symbolic initiative naming seven-time Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton an honorary citizen of the South American country.
Lawmaker Andre Figueiredo had introduced the proposal in November after the Brazilian Grand Prix won by Hamilton at the Interlagos track.
The British driver had carried a yellow and green flag on his victory lap and on the podium to celebrate with the local fans.
“Speechless. Today I was granted honorary nationality in one of my favorite places in the world,” Hamilton, 37, said on Instagram, where she posted photos of him holding the Brazilian flag.
“I really have no words at this point. Thank you, Brazil, I love you. I am looking forward to seeing you again.”
Hamilton has a large following in Brazil for his performance in F1 and his particular tribute to local hero Ayrton Senna, who died in a crash during a race at Imola, Italy, in 1994.
Hamilton, who lost the 2021 drivers’ championship to Dutchman Max Verstappen on the final lap of the campaign, has struggled this season.
He is sixth in the table with 50 points ahead of this weekend’s Azerbaijan Grand Prix, the eighth race on the calendar. (AFP)