London, June 30: Formula One champion driver Lewis Hamilton has said that when he met former South African president Nelson Mandela, it felt like he was in the presence of God.

The Formula One ace was among a host of celebrity guests at a bash in London to celebrate the former South Africa leader's 90th birthday, the Sun reports.

The McLaren ace, 23, said: "Nelson has meant the world to me. When I met him it was like walking in to see the king - to be in front of God.

"He was the guy I wanted to meet. So, I just couldn't believe it when I was invited to his celebrations. I was just so honoured. I was blown away. I was left speechless. I've never been speechless before."

"When I read about Nelson for the first time I was kind of 'wow'. When I got older I began to really appreciate just what an incredible nine decades he has had. He has self-belief. He wasn't afraid to suffer to achieve his dream.”

“It was one of the best nights of my life. I was supposed to leave early because I was testing at Silverstone the next day but I couldn't. I was one of the last to leave,” said Halmilton. (ANI)