Lewis Hamilton’s off-track project just earned a major UK motorsport honour

Lewis Hamilton's Mission 44 foundation received the Motorsport UK Inclusion Award at the Motorsport UK Night of Champions.

The seven-time Formula 1 champion founded the charity in 2021 with the aim of creating greater inclusion and diversity in motorsport. "I know not every young person has the same opportunities as me," Hamilton said on the foundation's official website. "That’s why, despite the championships, the wins and the pole positions, setting up Mission 44 has been my proudest achievement so far.

"I remember vividly just how difficult it was when I was a kid. Through the work that we’re doing, we have the chance to build a better future for today’s young people, both in the UK and around the world."

Mission 44 CEO Jason Arthur collected the award, and the Ferrari F1 driver's father, Anthony Hamilton, was also present at the ceremony.

"We were honoured to win the Inclusion in Motorsport Award at @ourmotorsportuk's ‘Night of Champions’! Since the launch of The Hamilton Commission in 2021, we’ve been working hard to open doors into STEM careers and build a more inclusive motorsport sector that recruits and empowers talented students from every background," the foundation posted.

"Our CEO @Jason_Arthur was there to collect the award on behalf of the @mission44 team. Whilst we’re proud to receive this award, we know there’s still a lot more work to be done to build a truly inclusive @F1 and motorsport industry."

“The Night of Champions always represents the very best of British motorsport, honouring our champions for their exceptional talent, commitment and determination across every discipline,” said David Richards CBE, chair of Motorsport UK.

“We also recognise the invaluable contribution of the wider motorsport community – our clubs, volunteers, officials and media – who all play a vital role in sustaining the sport at every level and helping to power its future. I sincerely congratulate all of this year’s award winners.”