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Ferrari driver Lewis Hamilton has welcomed Formula One’s planned return to Africa, suggesting that racing in Rwanda could persuade him to extend his career into his mid-forties.
The seven-time Formula One world champion made the remarks on Thursday ahead of the United States Grand Prix, days after F1 announced a 10-year agreement for Rwanda to host an African Grand Prix from the early 2030s.
Hamilton, 41, has campaigned for Formula One to return to Africa for several years. The continent last hosted an F1 race in 1993, when the South African Grand Prix took place at Kyalami near Johannesburg.
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The Ferrari driver said racing in Africa remained a personal ambition and indicated the Rwanda agreement had given him another reason to remain in Formula One.
Hamilton said he would have to continue producing strong results and maintaining his fitness if he wanted to compete in the inaugural race.
The planned event will take place on a new purpose-built circuit in Bugesera, around 40 kilometres south of Kigali. The track is expected to meet FIA Grade 1 standards, with the first race scheduled after construction is completed in the early 2030s.
Hamilton also acknowledged criticism and wider concerns surrounding Rwanda, saying such issues should not be ignored. He called for discussions about the country and Africa more broadly to be approached with humility and greater understanding.
Hamilton is currently contracted to Ferrari through the 2027 season, so competing in Rwanda would require him to stay in Formula One several years beyond his current deal.
