Formula 1 mourns the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II

Formula 1 mourns the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, who passed away on September 8 at the age of 96.

Her state funeral takes place today at Westminster Abbey in London, with a national two-minute silence to be held just before midday local time as the service draws to a close.

Leading the sport’s tributes to Queen Elizabeth II was Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali, who said: “Formula 1 mourns the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

“For more than seven decades she dedicated her life to public service with dignity and devotion and inspired so many around the world. Formula 1 sends its deepest condolences to the Royal Family and to the people of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth.”

Queen Elizabeth II bestowed knighthoods on four Formula 1 drivers during her 70-year reign, with Sir Lewis Hamilton the most recent, joining Sir Stirling Moss, Sir Jack Brabham and Sir Jackie Stewart.

Writing of Queen Elizabeth’s passing on social media, Hamilton said: “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... 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.”