SIR LEWIS HAMILTON has become the first recipient of a brand-new award at the prestigious Laureus World Sports Awards, for his involvement in the fight against racism, reports www.formula1.com.

The website reports that Hamilton, who won the Laureus World Sportsman of the Year Award in 2020, alongside Barcelona footballer Lionel Messi, was crowned the inaugural Laureus Athlete Advocate of the Year.

The seven-time world champion has been extremely vocal in the fight for racial equality, not just in Formula 1 but in wider society as a whole, with the Briton also establishing the Hamilton Commission with the stated aim of making the sport “as diverse as the complex and multicultural world we live in”.

Hamilton has been particularly outspoken against racism and racial injustice since the start of the 2020 season.

Last season he wore Black Lives Matter T-shirts, supported by other drivers who wore End Racism T-shirts. Both Formula 1 and the FIA have supported the anti-racism campaign, inclusive of anti-racial demonstrations before each race. On September 6, 14 of the 20 drivers took a knee before the Austrian Grand Prix, in support of Black Lives Matter.

Speaking on receiving his award, Hamilton said: “A huge thank you to the Laureus World Sports Academy for presenting me with this incredible award.”

“This past year has been incredibly difficult for so many, but it has also been heartening to see the power of our collective voices spark new conversations and change. The impact of each and every one of you who have stood up, is so inspiring, so I want to thank you. Please keep fighting, keep shining your light.

“The global rising to address the longstanding issue of systemic racism and inequality in our society has been monumental, but we must continue to fight. We must all see ourselves as responsible for making positive change in our world, and hold ourselves accountable, so that the promises of last year turn in to action.

“I truly believe that together, we will get there, and so I stand with you as we push forwards. I’m sending you all love and positivity, stay safe. Thank you.”

Last November, Hamilton was named the most influential Black person in Britain by The Powerlist 2021 – the annual list of the most powerful people of African, African Caribbean and African American heritage in the UK.

He said at the time:“It’s an absolute honour to be named number one on The Powerlist, I really really appreciate it. This for me is a monumental moment.  I’m so proud to be acknowledged, especially within the black community.

“Everyone on this list is so inspiring and leading in their own industry, I’m honestly thrilled to be mentioned alongside them. I think we all have responsibility and we’re trying to do our best. I like to think that I’m just a part of a chain of many people trying to push for change.”