Lewis Hamilton Champions Rwanda as Future Host for Grand Prix, Advocates for F1’s Return to Africa

Lewis Hamilton endorses the idea of considering a Formula 1 race in Rwanda

Lewis Hamilton has expressed his backing for a proposed Formula 1 race in Rwanda, Africa.

Before the upcoming Dutch Grand Prix, the Mercedes competitor was inquired about rumors that Formula 1 officials have planned discussions with Rwandan delegates to arrange a race.

Since 1993, when South Africa last held a grand prix, Africa has been absent from the F1 schedule. Hamilton has consistently supported the idea of bringing a grand prix back to the continent.

"At Zandvoort, where Crash.net is present in the paddock, he expressed his concern over the neglect of Africa in the schedule of races. He emphasized the imbalance by stating that while the world benefits from Africa, it fails to contribute back, highlighting the unfairness of excluding the continent from hosting races."

"A significant volume of tasks awaits completion."

"Many people around the globe who haven't visited often don't recognize the breathtaking beauty and immense scale of the area."

"Hosting a grand prix in that location could truly showcase its excellence and attract tourists among other benefits. So, what's stopping us from expanding to that continent?"

"The current justification being given is that perhaps there isn't a track prepared, but there is indeed at least one track that is prepared…"

"Rwanda holds a special place in my heart among the destinations I've visited. I've engaged in considerable behind-the-scenes efforts, communicating with individuals in both Rwanda and South Africa. It's a lengthy initiative in Rwanda, yet it's incredible how eager they are to see it through."

Hamilton describes visit to refugee settlement

During his summer holiday, Hamilton made a journey through Africa, including a stop at a refugee settlement in Senegal.

He described how, following a family vacation in Turkey, he "journeyed across Africa."

Hamilton stated, “I made the most of my time by heading straight from the airport to various activities, exploring historical museums and immersing myself in the cultural experiences offered by each of the different countries I visited.

"I'm still processing the experience, including visiting a refugee camp and observing the efforts underway there to help those who have been forced to leave their homes."

Observing something firsthand and hearing the personal stories of children who must travel 10 kilometers each way just to attend school, without the benefit of school meals or the ability to eat throughout the day, profoundly differs from simply learning about it through reading or watching the news.

The conditions are extremely challenging in that area, with women and children bearing the brunt of the hardships.

"The number of men present was low due to them being either deceased or captured in various zones of conflict."

"Witnessing that was profoundly impactful, and then visiting the places of enslavement in Senegal…

"Observing the nation's journey and its breathtaking beauty enriches my perspective, shaping my future ambitions."

Hamilton mentioned regarding the refugee camps, "Without witnessing it firsthand, engaging with it, or conversing with someone deeply impacted, it's beyond one's imagination."

"I've visited Africa previously, so nothing really surprises me anymore.

"I wouldn't say it bothers me, rather, it stimulates my thinking. Witnessing these organizations accomplish incredible things makes me wonder how I can contribute, what role I can play. That's essentially what I'm aiming to figure out."

Hamilton makes a comeback to Formula 1 at Zandvoort this weekend, having clinched victories in two out of the last three races.

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