London, Mar. 11 : Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton has described collecting his MBE from the Queen on Tuesday as "one of the most overwhelming experiences" of his life.

The 24-year-old racing star swapped his crash helmet and driving gear for a smart grey pinstripe suit for the royal occasion, The Mirror reports.

"I was so nervous to meet her. It was one of the most overwhelming experiences I''ve ever had. I''m kind of lost for words," he was quoted, as saying.

"I don''t think you realize until you''re standing in front of her how special it is."

He added of his win in Brazil: "The Queen said she watched very closely the last few laps. She was asking about the car."

Hamilton''s next race is the opening Formula One race in Australia at the end of the month.

His father Anthony, brother Nicolas and stepmother Linda accompanied him, but his Pussycat Dolls girlfriend Nicole Scherzinger, who is on tour, was not present. (ANI)