The New Year's Honours list has long been a stage for recognising British excellence, and the high-octane world of Formula One has produced several of its most celebrated recipients. The tradition of bestowing knighthoods and other royal accolades upon motorsport's finest continues, with former Red Bull team principal Christian Horner being the latest to join the ranks.
The Elite Five: F1's Knighted Legends
Over the decades, only a select group of Formula One personalities have been awarded a knighthood. Sir Lewis Hamilton stands as the most recent driver to receive the honour, knighted in 2021 shortly after his dramatic and controversial championship defeat to Max Verstappen. The British icon, who holds a record-equalling seven World Drivers' Championship titles alongside Michael Schumacher, remains an active and dominant force on the grid.
The honour roll of knighted drivers includes pioneering figures from the sport's history. Sir Jack Brabham, the formidable Australian three-time World Champion, was made a Knight Bachelor in 1979, nine years after retiring from his 15-year career. Sir Stirling Moss earned his knighthood despite the unique distinction of being the only driver to receive the honour without ever winning a world title, a testament to his 16 Grand Prix victories and legendary status.
Completing the racing trio is Sir Jackie Stewart. The Scottish three-time champion, who retired in 1973, received his knighthood 28 years later in 2001. He remains a beloved and visible presence at Grand Prix weekends, often featured in broadcast coverage.
Leadership Honoured: Ron Dennis's Contribution
Knighthoods in F1 are not exclusively for those behind the wheel. Sir Ron Dennis, the former long-serving McLaren team principal, was knighted primarily for his services to industry and charity, alongside his motorsport success. His honour specifically recognised his work with the Podium Analytics organisation and the Tommy's charity.
Christian Horner: On the Path to a Knighthood?
The latest F1 figure to be recognised in the New Year's Honours is Christian Horner. In the 2024 list, the former Red Bull team boss was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for his services to motorsport. This prestigious award marks a significant step in the honours hierarchy, placing him just one tier below a full knighthood.
Horner, 52, was at the helm of Red Bull Racing for two decades, overseeing a period of immense success including multiple constructors' and drivers' championships. Although his tenure ended in July 2024, reports suggest he is targeting a return to the F1 paddock by 2026. His CBE solidifies his standing as one of the most influential British figures in the sport's recent history.
The New Year's Honours continue to celebrate the extraordinary achievements within Formula One, from the daring drivers who become household names to the strategic masterminds who build winning teams. For personalities like Christian Horner, such recognition not only honours past accomplishments but also highlights their ongoing legacy within British sport.
