Lewis Hamilton paid tribute to Theresa May as she stepped down as British Prime Minister this week, saying the former premier had "balls of steel" during her tenure.

Mrs May was replaced by Boris Johnson on Wednesday as leader of the United Kingdom, after being forced to resign over delays to Brexit.

Hamilton countered the rough treatment from media and colleagues that May had often received and praised her as he seemingly watched her farewell press conference on the steps of 10, Downing Street.

Hamilton posted on Instagram: "This women (sic) put up with so much shit from everyone in the UK and remains graceful as she exits.

"Whether you think she was good or not, still got to say she's had balls of steal (sic) to handle the crap thrown at her. Wish her all the best."

Not everyone was a fan of @theresa_may in the UK but it seems @LewisHamilton was impressed...#F1 pic.twitter.com/EUhUOeKCdZ

— GPFans Global (@GPFansGlobal) July 25, 2019