Jenson Button was appointed Member of the British Empire by the Queen after taking this year's Formula 1 World Championship crown. The Briton won his first title after scoring six victories with the Brawn GP team, before moving to rival McLaren from the 2010 season.
Button's former team boss, Ross Brawn, was also honored and will be appointed Officer of the British Empire (OBE) in the New Year's honors list.
"This really is the crowning glory to what has been the most incredible year of my life," Button said. "To be recognized by the Queen and the British people is a tremendous honor."