Lewis Hamilton. The champion of and for our time. The greatest I’ve ever seen. The greatest, to my mind, of all time.

While Lewis himself says it’s not where you start, it’s where you finish, I’d argue he’s proven that the most important aspect is how you get there.

I’ve always been mesmerised by his skill on track, but this year I’ve been inspired by his actions off it. At a time of fear and division, he’s sought to use his position on the world stage to unite and inspire, to fight for what he holds true and to make his voice heard.

Honourable and courageous; more statesman than sportsman.

A proud, principled, prodigious black British man. A hero and an inspiration. A seven time world champion.

And still he rises