Grapevine: Hamilton beaten to top BBC award

The McLaren driver, who had been one of the favourites to take the accolade, was beaten to the trophy by British boxer Joe Calzaghe.

Hamilton seemed far from disappointed at missing out on the top spot, though, having earlier taken centre stage at the BBC sports review programme that took place in Birmingham.

Speaking about his year, standing in front of his McLaren MP4-22, he said: "I was given an amazing opportunity to race this year and to think I came so close to a world championship in my first season is mesmerizing.

"It was an amazing season. I couldn't believe I was there and I can't believe I am here. It was good. I am now focusing on next year, and the car will be even better, so I can't wait."

The last racing driver to win the prestigious BBC award was Damon Hill, who claimed it at the end of his title winning 1996 campaign. He had also won it in 1994.

The former Brabham, Williams, Arrows and Jordan driver was present to see Hamilton get handed the runners-up trophy, and paid tribute to the young Briton.

"The way he is going, he is going to have every record tied up," said Hill. "It was a phenomenal performance for someone so modest.

"You cannot be a competitor without having a part that thinks, 'I can do this'. He is so prepared, so determined, and his talent was immediately obvious from the very first race."

Other racing stars to have won the Award include Nigel Mansell in 1992 and 1986, Jackie Stewart in 1973, Stirling Moss in 1961, and John Surtees in 1959.