Sir Lewis Hamilton says he is changing his name

Sir Lewis Hamilton has revealed he is currently in the process of changing his name.

The F1 world champion plans to incorporate his mother Carmen's maiden name - Larbalestier - alongside Hamilton. Hit father Anthony and his mother separated when Lewis was aged two.

His mother was invited to watch him receive his knighthood from Prince Charles at Windsor Castle in December. Speaking ahead of the new Formula One season which starts in Bahrain on Sunday, Hamilton, 37, said: “I am really proud of my family’s name. My mum’s name is Larbalestier and I am just about to put that in my name.

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“I don’t really fully understand the whole idea that when people get married the woman loses her name and I really want my mum’s name to continue on with the Hamilton name.”

Asked when he anticipated the change would take place, Hamilton replied: “Hopefully soon. We are working on it.”

The seven-time world champion is preparing for his 16th season on the grid and bidding to avenge last year's contentions championship defeat to Red Bull rival Max Verstappen.

However, following last week's final test, Hamilton expressed fears that Mercedes were behind Red Bull and Ferrari and warned his car may not be quick enough to fight for victories.

“Bahrain is going to be tough,” added Hamilton, who was speaking at Dubai Expo 2020 on Monday.

“I am really hoping that when I get on the call this evening – with my team at Brackley and Brixworth – they have found some tricks and ways to extract more from this car.

“There were a lot of cars that looked fast in testing. Alfa Romeo looked fast, Valtteri (Bottas) looked quick, and obviously the Red Bull looked ridiculously fast – but we are the