Hamilton and F1 stars pay tribute to ‘true hero’ Captain Sir Tom Moore
British Formula 1 drivers have paid tribute to Captain Sir Tom Moore after he died aged 100, with Lewis Hamilton calling the Second World War veteran “a true hero” and an “inspiration to the entire country”.
Captain Sir Tom, who became a national treasure after he raised almost £33m for NHS charities by walking 100 laps of his garden with his zimmer frame, died on Tuesday after being admitted to hospital with coronavirus and pneumonia.
Seven-time world champion Hamilton was among the sporting stars who paid their respects to Captain Sir Tom, who was a huge F1 fan and made an appearance on Sky Sports F1’s 2020 coverage, voicing the intro to the 70th Anniversary Grand Prix at Silverstone.
“I am so saddened to hear of the passing of Captain Sir Tom Moore,” Hamilton wrote on social media.
“He was an inspiration to the entire country and I am honoured to have had the opportunity to be able to tell him how in awe of him I was.
“My thoughts and prayers are with his family today, as well as everyone who has lost a loved one to the virus.
“Captain Sir Tom was a true hero and we will never forget the incredible man who brought out the best of us at such a difficult time. RIP Captain Sir Tom.”
McLaren and Lando Norris also paid tribute to Captain Sir Tom, with Norris writing on Twitter: “With sadness one of the coolest and most inspiring characters has passed away.
“A man who showed the world what you can do no matter the age or difficulty. It was a pleasure to share some good laughs with you, I’ll remember them.
“To an inspiration. Rest in peace Captain Sir Tom.”
Everybody at McLaren is deeply saddened to hear the news of Captain Sir Tom Moore’s passing.
— McLaren (@McLarenF1) February 2, 2021
His remarkable resilience, courage and optimism will continue to inspire us all. Our thoughts go out to his family at this difficult time. pic.twitter.com/Uh3yENeKle
Williams driver George Russell described Captain Sir Tom as "a shining light in these dark times" and a "true hero".
All at Williams are deeply saddened to learn of Captain Sir Tom Moore's passing.
— Williams Racing (@WilliamsRacing) February 2, 2021
During such a challenging time, he was an inspiration to so many not just in the UK but around the world. Our thoughts go out to his family and friends. https://t.co/jgDnGJFAmZ
Our thoughts go out to the family and friends of Captain Sir Tom Moore. He was, and will always be, an inspiration to us all. A true hero. https://t.co/BHjIyerFm7
— Aston Martin Cognizant F1 Team (@AstonMartinF1) February 2, 2021
Our thoughts and wishes are with the family of Captain Sir Tom Moore.
— Silverstone (@SilverstoneUK) February 2, 2021
His optimism and determination lifted our spirits during dark times and will continue to inspire us all. https://t.co/KfSCNqJfOT