Jackie Stewart: I am honored to be a friend of the Queen

The funeral of Queen Elizabeth II of Great Britain, who reigned longer than any other monarch in UK history from 1952 to 2022, took place in London today.

Formula 1 leadership responded to this event, all British Championship teams honored the memory of Elizabeth II and Sir Jackie Stewart, a three-time world champion, who was knighted in 2001 for his sporting achievements and social activities.

“I had the great honor of being her friend. Without fear of being misunderstood, I will say that of all the women I have met in my life, it was she who made the strongest impression, – said Stewart. “Her Majesty held a very special place in my little world, and I was very lucky, we met through Princess Anna, who was recognized as Sportswoman of the Year in 1973, and then I became Sportsman of the Year.

After that we developed friendly relations, we often met at various events, including at the royal estates in Scotland and at Buckingham Palace. Together with Helen, my wife, we often received Her Majesty at our home, which was a special privilege.

There was once such a case: the president of the Royal Automobile Club (RAC) invited Her Majesty to celebrate my 80th birthday, but after a few weeks they reported from the palace that unfortunately the Queen would not be able to visit us .

And soon I was invited to the royal residence, Sandringham Palace, and there we practiced shooting, after which there was an afternoon tea party, and I told Her Majesty I was sorry she could not attend my birthday party in the Royal Auto Club.

“What birthday?” the queen asked.

I replied: “My 80th birthday, we will celebrate it in the RAC, and you are the president of this club, and we hoped you could be there.”

She said, “Okay, I’ll find out.”

And two days later we were told by the royal palace that Her Majesty would be very happy to attend my birthday, and it was great because my whole family was there.”