Button to receive MBE from Queen

(GMM) In the footsteps of his new McLaren teammate Lewis Hamilton, reigning world champion Jenson Button is to become a Member of the British Empire (MBE).

The honor will be announced in the Queen's traditional New Year list, according to the Sunday Mirror newspaper.

Fellow Briton Hamilton, 24, received his similar prize a year ago, after winning the 2008 world championship.

The news will be officially confirmed next week.

The MBE is the initial chivalry class of the Order of the British Empire.