Lewis Hamilton becomes honorary citizen of Brazil

Seven-times Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton said he was speechless after being made an honorary citizen of Brazil when the lower house of parliament passed a bill on June 9, Report informs referring to Reuters.

The move had been proposed by congressman Andre Figueiredo after last year's Brazilian Grand Prix was won by the British driver who unfurled the Brazilian flag at Sao Paulo's Interlagos circuit.

Hamilton backed the move in April, when he visited Sao Paulo to deliver a keynote speech at an event focused on business and digital transformation, saying he would be honored.

"Today I was granted honorary citizenship to one of my favourite places in the world," Hamilton, who is racing in Azerbaijan this weekend, told his 28.4 million followers on Instagram.

"I don't really have the words right now. Thank you Brasil, I love you, I can't wait to see you again."

Hamilton sits sixth in the Drivers’ Standings with 50 points. His teammate George Russell is in fourth position with 84 points. Red Bull driver Max Verstappen tops the rankings with 125 points.

Azerbaijan Grand Prix will take place on June 12.