Former Formula 1 driver Mark Webber has received the title of Officer of the Order of Australia, one of his country’s highest national awards.
The award is a tribute to Webber's distinguished motorsport career as well as to his significant charity work including the Mark Webber Tasmania Challenge.
The one-time kid from Queabnbeyan, New South Wales, achieved nine Grand Prix wins as well a World Sports Car championship title before retiring from racing at the end of last year.
Webber's no-nonsense, open and honest approach to racing, which always made him a favourite with the fans, is reflected in his response to receiving the prestigious title from his country.
"I didn’t expect it at all, I didn’t think there would be anything coming along," Webber told News Corp from his home base in Britain.
"It’s a bit of a surprise. But I think it’s an absolute honour to be recognised at that level.
It’s been a long-term run over here. I left a long time ago, and it’s been nice to fly the flag.
"You don’t look back too much ... but I hope I represented Australia as best I could."
The 40-year-old recently hung up his helmet but remains firmly entrenched in racing with ambassadorial roles with Porsche and Red Bull, and as an F1 commentator for Britain's Channel Four.
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