Lewis Hamilton, the only Black driver in Formula One, is determined to bring a race to Africa to showcase the continent’s beauty. He believes now is the perfect time and is collaborating with Rwanda and South Africa to make this happen.
During the Dutch Grand Prix, Hamilton, a seven-time world champion, stressed the importance of including Africa in the Formula One calendar. He criticized the sport for overlooking the continent and suggested that a Grand Prix could boost tourism and highlight Africa’s appeal.
Hamilton pointed out that there is already a track in Africa ready for use and proposed incorporating it into the schedule while developing plans for a more advanced circuit in the future.
Despite Formula One’s long-standing interest in returning to Africa since the last race at South Africa’s Kyalami circuit in 1993, financial issues have been a significant barrier. Recently, it was mentioned that Rwanda is interested in hosting a race at a new track, with further discussions planned for September.
Hamilton conveyed his enthusiasm for both Rwanda and South Africa and his ongoing efforts to support their bid for a Formula One event.
Profound Experience
The 39-year-old Briton has recently traveled to Africa with the UNHCR, visiting Morocco, Senegal, Benin, Mozambique, and Madagascar.
“Reflecting on this trip is quite overwhelming,” he said. “Experiencing life in a refugee camp and seeing how displaced people cope was deeply impactful.”
“Observing children walking long distances to attend school, often without proper meals, was especially sobering. The historical sites in Senegal related to slavery were also very poignant.”
Hamilton mentioned that these experiences are shaping his future objectives and perspectives.
