The footballer took to Twitter to label Hamilton a “terrible role model to any Britain”, adding that so-called “tax exile’s” should be “exempt from winning trophies paid and voted for by the tax/licence payer”.
“McIlroy, wins multiple golf Majors and Ryder Cup. Froch, boxing World champion. In fact every other nominee was more deserving the Hamilton,” he added.
He also seized the opportunity to label Formula 1 the “most boring sport ever” and criticise Hamilton’s decision to bring his dog to last night’s event, which was organised by the BBC.
Hamilton’s tax affairs first received public attention in October 2007 when he announced his intention to move to Switzerland.
Despite initially claiming he wished to get away from media scrutiny, he later admitted the move was in part motivated by taxation.
Hamilton was subsequently harangued by a variety of UK members of parliament before moving to Luins in Vaud canton on Lake Geneva.
In 2008 he was singled out alongside several other celebrities by Christian Aid in a report that criticised his tax arrangements.
Northern Irish golfer Rory McIlroy was the runner-up in last night’s ceremony, with athlete Jo Pavey coming third.
