‘I’m grateful to have lived during her time’ – Lewis Hamilton posts emotional tribute to The Queen ahead of Italian GP

LEWIS HAMILTON paid tribute to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II ahead of this weekend’s Italian Grand Prix.

The Queen died peacefully aged 96 on Thursday – marking an end to her historic reign and making her son, Charles, King.

AP

Lewis Hamilton has paid tribute to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II[/caption]

PA

The Queen, pictured with the F1 legend in 2020, passed away aged 96 on Thursday[/caption]

Charles, who will now be known as King Charles III, gave a sombre statement as he led the nation in mourning last night.

The Premier League and EFL have postponed all matches this weekend along with a host of other sporting events.

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The Queen’s passing comes as…

• Liz Truss hailed the Queen as ‘the rock on which modern Britain was built’
• King Charles told of his ‘greatest’ sadness as he paid tribute to his mother
• The Queen went from a shy daddy’s girl to a hero who dedicated her life to the country
• The Union flag flew at half mast as the devastating news was announced
• Prince Charles has now become King Charles III
• Prince Harry was pictured holding his head as he travelled to Balmoral to be with his family
• Crowds have gathered at Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle and Balmoral to pay tribute to the Queen

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However, the race in Monza will go ahead as planned with F1 promising a dignified approach to proceedings after The Queen passed away.

A minute silence will be held ahead of today’s practice session and there is likely to be another before Sunday’s race.

Hamilton met The Queen on several occasions such as when he was awarded an MBE in 2008.

He also admitted he was told off by The Queen after breaking Royal protocol at a dinner in 2010.

The seven-times F1 champion said he started talking to Her Majesty but was told he had to wait his turn.

Ahead of the race at Monza, Hamilton wrote on Instagram: “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.

“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.

“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.”