Hamilton leads tributes to NBA legend Bryant

Mark Scott
Kobe Bryant

Kobe Bryant

Lewis Hamilton and the wider motorsport community have paid their respects following the death of the legendary NBA star, Kobe Bryant.

Bryant, 41, died in a helicopter crash in the city of Calabasas, California on Sunday along with his 13-year-old daughter, Gianna, and seven other passengers.

The tributes have since poured in following the shock news, with Hamilton amongst the high-profile names to send his sympathies and condolences.

“I’m sad to hear that we lost one of our greats,” Hamilton said on social media.

“Kobe Bryant was one of the greatest athletes and was such an inspiration to so many including myself.”

“I’m deeply saddened for his family and for the people around the world who looked up to him. May he and his daughter rest in peace.”

McLaren driver, Carlos Sainz, described Bryant as a “huge legend” in his tribute post.

So did team-mate Lando Norris on Instagram.

Their team also paid their respects to one of sport’s biggest superstars.

Alfa Romeo followed suit.

Jenson Button described Bryant as “one of the best sportsmen/athletes that has ever lived”.

Racing Point driver Sergio Perez referred to Bryant as a “great legend”.

His team also posted their own tribute via their Twitter page.