Lewis Hamilton receives title of Honorary Brazilian Citizen

In a crowded plenary session, Formula 1 driver Lewis Hamilton received emotionally on Monday (Nov. 7), the title of Honorary Brazilian Citizen in the House of Representatives.

In his speech, he dedicated the tribute to his "great hero" Ayrton Senna.

"It is a great honor to receive this title today. Now, I can finally say that I am one of you. I love Brazil, I have always loved Brazil. I have incredible memories of Brazil, even before I had the opportunity to come here. When I was here in 2007, the love I received and the experiences I had were very special to me. But last year, the affection I received from your fans was one of the most special moments of my entire life," the driver said.

Tribute

In proposing the tribute, Congressman André Figueiredo pointed out the close relationship Hamilton has with Brazil and mentioned that in 2021 he won the Formula 1 Brazilian Grand Prix, in São Paulo, wearing a helmet with the colors green and yellow. On that occasion, the driver repeated Ayrton Senna's gesture in 1991, taking an extra lap around the race track with the Brazilian flag.

The British driver is a seven-time Formula 1 world Champion. He is in Brazil for the Interlagos Grand Prix, to be held this weekend in São Paulo.

The head of the House of Representatives Arthur Lira said Hamilton is an idol of all Brazilians, and an unconditional fan of the "eternal and missed" Ayrton Senna.

"Today, the driver and the man we are happy to pay tribute to, has become an idol of all Brazilians and needs no further introduction. However, we must remember that Lewis Hamilton, thanks to his talent and determination, is a true title collector. British by birth, but Brazilian at heart, Hamilton is a seven-time Formula 1 world Champion," he said.