Hamilton receives knighthood days after controversial F1 season finale

Hamilton was overtaken on the final lap of the last race after it was restarted following a late safety car.

The decision, which appeared to be in contravention of the governing body’s own rules and standard protocols, to race again for one lap left Hamilton, who had dominated the race and was on course for the title himself, exposed on old tyres.

Verstappen, who had pitted for fresh ones, passed him to win.

Mercedes have said they intend to appeal against a decision by race stewards to reject their post-race protest regarding the handling of events by race director Michael Masi.

They have 96 hours from giving notice of intention to appeal – until around 19:00 UK time on Thursday – to decide whether to go ahead.

Hamilton was made an MBE in 2008 after winning his first F1 championship.

He said over his team radio at the end of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix that it had been “manipulated” but was magnanimous in his interviews after the race. (BBC Sport)