Lewis Hamilton made honorary citizen of Brazil, Pele congratulates him

"Today I was granted honorary citizenship to one of my favourite places in the world," said Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton on being made a citizen of Brazil

Seven-times Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton said he was speechless after being made an honorary citizen of Brazil when the lower house of Parliament passed a bill on Thursday.

The move had been proposed by congressman Andre Figueiredo after last year's Brazilian Grand Prix was won by the British driver who unfurled the Brazilian flag at Sao Paulo's Interlagos circuit.

Hamilton backed the move in April, when he visited Sao Paulo to deliver a keynote speech at an event focused on business and digital transformation, saying he would be honoured.

"Today I was granted honorary citizenship to one of my favourite places in the world," Hamilton, who is racing in Azerbaijan this weekend, told his 28.4 million followers on Instagram.

"I don't really have the words right now. Thank you Brasil, I love you, I can't wait to see you again."

Soccer great Pele, 81, responded to the post: "Congratulations, Lewis. I am happy that, from now on, I can consider you a countryman."

The lower house will now hold a solemn session to deliver the 37-year-old the honorary citizenship. A date is yet to be set.