Lewis Hamilton has said he hopes to remain racing in Formula One until he can take part in the African Grand Prix, which is set to take place in Rwanda in the early 2030s. The seven-time world champion stated that competing on the continent has long been his personal ambition.
Formula One confirmed a 10-year agreement for Rwanda to host the event on a purpose-built circuit. The venue is lined up for Bugesera, located 25 miles south of the capital, Kigali. The facility has yet to be constructed and marks a return to the African continent for the first time since a race was held at Kyalami, South Africa, in 1993.
“I am now forced to have to stay a lot longer because we have a race in Africa and that has been my dream to be able to race in Africa,” Hamilton said. He would be at least in his mid-40s if he continues until 2030. Fernando Alonso is currently F1’s oldest driver at 45.
The award of the race has faced criticism due to Rwanda’s human rights record. Amnesty UK head of campaigns Felix Jakens described the deal as a sportswashing prize for Rwandan authorities. “Rwanda is buying into the world’s biggest sports to polish its image and deflect from its appalling human rights record,” Jakens said, adding that authorities are prolific in arbitrary detention, torture, and the repression of free speech.
Hamilton believes F1 is right to hold a race there despite the criticism, arguing the event can act as a force for good. “Of course, I don’t get to choose where we go, and naturally there’s problems all over the world today, so I’ve seen many of the stories but I think we really have to approach it with humility,” he said.
The new race is backed by the government of Rwanda and the Rwanda Development Board to promote economic growth. Rwanda has recently invested heavily in hosting international sporting events, including cycling championships, cricket tournaments, the 2023 FIFA congress, and the Basketball Africa League.
Hamilton suggested that visiting the country offers an opportunity for people to educate themselves about the continent’s history and current affairs. He also called for broader global peace and awareness, mentioning ongoing conflicts and crises.
In other F1 news, 18-year-old British driver Freddie Slater will make his free practice debut for Audi at the upcoming Mexico City Grand Prix. Slater finished second in the Formula 3 standings in his debut season and is scheduled to move to Formula 2 next year.
Audi racing director Allan McNish said the practice appearances in Mexico and Brazil will provide valuable experience for Slater. Meanwhile, Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli enters the weekend’s US Grand Prix with an opportunity to clinch his first F1 title at age 20.
