Lewis Hamilton and fellow Formula 1 stars pay tribute to Queen Elizabeth II after her death aged 96

Sir Lewis Hamilton has led the Formula 1 community in paying tribute to Queen Elizabeth II after the UK’s longest-serving monarch died at the age of 96.

The Queen reigned for 70 years after coming to the throne in 1952.

Following her death, her eldest son Charles, the former Prince of Wales, will lead the country in mourning as the new King.

Hamilton met the Queen several times over his career, receiving a knighthood in 2020, and paid a heartfelt tribute to Her Majesty on Friday morning.

‘How do you find the words to describe the loss of Her Majesty The Queen? She was truly an iconic leader, an inspiration and a reassuring presence for most, if not all, of our lives,’ the seven-time world champion posted on Instagram.

‘Since the sad news yesterday, I’ve been reflecting on her incredible life. She was a symbol of hope for so many and she served her country with dignity, dedication and kindness.

‘She was truly like no other and I’m grateful to have lived during her time. Her legacy will be long-lasting and her passing deeply felt.

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II has died after 70 years on the throne, with her death announced by Buckingham Palace on September 8, 2022.

She died at the age of 96 at her home in Balmoral, with her son, the now King Charles, and daughter Princess Anne by her side.

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‘I had the incredible honour of being able to spend time with her. It is something I’ll never forget. We talked about our shared love of dogs and she was incredibly generous with her time.

‘I know the whole nation and many others around the world will be mourning her loss and my thoughts and prayers are with her family and all those close to her, who have lost a loved one. Rest in Peace.’

Hamil