Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton discovered in 2015 that even sporting royalty must bow to Wimbledon's time-honoured traditions.
The racing driver was turned away from the prestigious royal box at Centre Court after arriving in a flamboyant floral shirt rather than the mandatory jacket and tie.
Despite holding two world championships at the time and being on course for his third, Hamilton's sporting achievements counted for nothing when he breached the All England Club's strict dress code.
The incident occurred as he attempted to watch the men's singles final, having been formally invited to the exclusive enclosure that has entertained distinguished guests since 1922.
Lewis Hamilton turned up to Wimbledon in 2015 wearing a flamboyant shirt
PA
Hamilton had arrived at SW19 sporting a bold ensemble: a vibrant floral shirt paired with grey trousers, camel-coloured suede shoes and a fedora.
His outfit choice stood in stark contrast to the royal box's unwavering requirement for gentlemen to wear jackets, ties and appropriate footwear.
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Earlier that day, the Stevenage-born driver had posted on social media about his invitation. "On my way to Wimbledon to watch the final.
Honoured to have been invited to watch the men's finals from the Royal Box," he wrote, accompanied by a photograph of his invitation package.
The miscommunication about dress requirements would prove costly for the racing star.
The All England Club ultimately found a diplomatic solution, securing Hamilton a place in a hospitality section where he could still enjoy the match.
Richard Lewis, the club's former chief executive, later explained to Sky Sports News: "Lewis arrived and it hadn't been communicated to him by his assistants that it was a jacket and tie."
Lewis emphasised the amicable nature of the resolution: "It was all very harmonious and we've made it clear to Lewis already that he'd be more than welcome to come back to the Royal Box in the future - and I'm sure he will."
A spokesman for Hamilton confirmed his disappointment at missing the royal box experience due to the "unfortunate misunderstanding regarding dress code."
Hamilton's experience was not unique amongst those with connections to the royal family.
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Lewis Hamilton's attire did not comply with the Royal Box's strict dress code
PA
In 2017, Pippa Middleton and her mother Carole faced similar rejection from the royal box, though for a different infraction.
The pair were denied entry after arriving late, demonstrating that Wimbledon's protocols extend beyond dress requirements to punctuality.
The All England Club's steadfast adherence to its rules applies equally to all guests, regardless of their social standing or family connections.
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