Prince Harry leads the congratulations for Lewis Hamilton in Abu Dhabi, calling him 'an absolute legend' as he crossed the finish line

Prince Harry was an eager spectator at the Yas Marina circuit

Prince Harry was the first person to congratulate Lewis Hamilton in Abu Dhabi today after the Briton powered to victory to secure the F1 Drivers' Championship for the second time in his career.

His Royal Highness was standing in the pits at the Yas Marina circuit with Mercedes executives and had the radio primed at the ready as soon Hamilton crossed the line.

"Lewis thank you very much for not making the British public sweat," Prince Harry said.

"You are an absolute legend. Well done mate."

Hamilton beat his Mercedes team-mate and rival Nico Rosberg to triumph. The 29-year-old had also won the title in 2008.

As soon as he emerged from his car, the victorious Hamilton was also congratulated by pop star girlfriend Nicole Scherzinger, along with his father Anthony, step-mum Linda and brother Nicolas.

Britain's Hamilton celebrates his triumph in Abu Dhabi (Getty)

Hamilton said afterwards: "I can't explain how much this means. It means more than the first one, it feels like the first time, I'm blessed.

Hamilton embraces girlfriend Nicole Scherzinger

"This is the greatest day of my life. 2008 was a special time, but the feeling I have now is way past that, above and beyond."