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British F1 driver Lewis Hamilton received Brazilian citizenship after a bill was passed in the lower house of parliament. The seven-time expressed that he was ‘speechless’ after hearing the news and thanked the South American country for its gesture.
"Today I was granted honorary citizenship to one of my favourite places in the world," Hamilton said. "I don't really have the words right now. Thank you, Brasil, I love you, I can't wait to see you again." Footballing legend and Brazillian hero Pele addressed the news and welcomed the British driver to Brazil. He said, "Congratulations, Lewis. I am happy that, from now on, I can consider you a countryman."
His gestures add to his indisputable sporting merit: Jhonatan de Jesus
Congressman Jhonatan de Jesus of the Republican party also talked about Hamilton’s citizenship and said, "His gestures add to his indisputable sporting merit. His public positions in support of relevant issues such as the environment, animal rights, Black people, women and human rights must also be remembered and highlighted."
I want to spend more time here in Brazil: Lewis Hamilton
The news about possibly getting floated when the Mercedes driver was talking at the VTEX Day in Sao Paulo, in April 2022. When asked about Brasil, "I want to spend more time here in Brazil...It is such a beautiful culture. I’ve only been to Rio and Sao Paulo, but I want to come back for Christmas, New Year or something," Lewis Hamilton said.
"Neymar invites me every year, and (pro surfer) Gabriel (Medina) invites me every year, but I never had the chance...I’m waiting for my Brazilian passport," he continued. PDT party’s Ciro Gomes backed the honorary citizenship for Hamilton and said, "Hamilton, you already live in our hearts. With the honorary citizenship, you will be even closer to us."