Lewis Hamilton set to be knighted despite tax controversy and living in Monaco

Lewis Hamilton is set to be awarded a knighthood in the New Year’s Honour list after winning his seventh world championship this year.

Hamilton made F1 history last week when he equalled the legendary Michael Schumacher’s record with a seventh world-title win. Nobody has won more driver championships than the pair in the sport.

The 35-year-old Monaco tax exile had has previously played down the calls for a knighthood, saying: ‘I’ve not saved any lives, I’m not an unsung hero like NHS staff or Captain Sir Tom Moore.’

The Formula One champion will receive the award despite his controversial tax affairs.

But the Government’s Honours Committee said his affairs were ‘all in order’ and he will be given the award in the New Year, The Sun is reporting.

Hamilton has also been a vocal supporter of the ‘Black Lives Matter’ campaign criticising Formula 1 and other drivers for their stances on the issue.

Sources close to Hamilton have said: ‘This is an honour that has eluded Lewis for so many years. It marks an incredible end to the most wonderful season.’

Another said: ‘He is paying the right amount of tax — all that is due.