Awarded Honorary Citizen Of Brazil, Lewis Hamilton: I'm Speechless Now Thank You

Lewis Hamilton (instagram @lewishamilton)

JAKARTA - Seven-time Formula 1 winner Lewis Hamilton was left speechless after learning he was awarded the title of honorary Brazilian citizen after the South American nation's lower house of parliament passed the relevant law on Thursday.

Congressman Andre Figueiredo proposed the idea after last year's Brazilian Grand Prix was won by Hamilton flying the Brazilian flag at the Interlagos circuit in Sao Paulo.

Hamilton backed the proposal in April when he visited Sao Paulo to be a keynote speaker at an event discussing business and digital transformation, saying he would be flattered.

"Today I was awarded the title of honorary citizen of one of my most favorite places in the world," Hamilton, who will race this weekend in Azerbaijan, told his 28.4 million followers on Instagram.

"I'm speechless right now. Thank you Brazil, I love you, can't wait to see you again."

Football legend Pele, 81, responded with a post saying: "Congratulations Lewis, I'm so happy, from now on, I see you as a compatriot."

Reuters reported that Brazil's lower house of parliament will hold a session to concede the title of honorary citizen to the 37-year-old Briton, although no date has yet been set.

Figueiredo, a member of Brazil's Democratic Labor Party, praised the driver's actions for celebrating in his country at last year's race and Hamilton also idolizes Brazilian three-time world champion Ayrton Senna.

Hamilton, who also received a knighthood from England, saw fans chanting his name alongside the local hero Senna when he waved the Brazilian flag on the podium last year.

Republican congressman Johnatan de Jesus said in media reports that Hamilton had a "deep and emotional" relationship with Brazil and the award he deserved.

"His actions complement the undeniable sporting achievements. His public position in supporting relevant issues such as the environment, animal rights, black people, women and human rights must also be remembered and highlighted," said Jesus.

The voting from the congress was symbolic as the debate lasted about 10 minutes. A number of congressmen, however, responded to the law with criticism.

"I recognize Hamilton's achievements... but this law makes it clear that we have never addressed Brazil's structural problems as a priority," said Tiago Mitraud of the New Party.