Lewis Hamilton Questions Rwanda as Venue for Africa's First F1 Grand Prix in 33 Years
- Lewis Hamilton has welcomed Formula One’s return to Africa but says concerns about Rwanda must remain part of the conversation
- The Ferrari driver has spent years pushing for an African race and sees the announcement as more than a sporting milestone
- With the inaugural Grand Prix expected in the early 2030s, Hamilton has a personal reason to keep racing for longer
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Lewis Hamilton has welcomed Formula One’s decision to bring the championship back to Africa, but the seven-time world champion says Rwanda’s selection as host should not prevent scrutiny of the country’s challenges. The Ferrari driver also hopes to extend his career long enough to compete in the historic race, expected in the early 2030s.
Speaking ahead of the United States Grand Prix on Thursday, 22 October 2026, Hamilton acknowledged the concerns surrounding Rwanda and called for a thoughtful approach.
“Of course, I don’t get to choose where we go and, naturally, there’s problems all over the world today,” he said.
“I’ve seen many of the stories, but I think we really have to approach it with humility.”
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According to Reuters, the driver also stressed that the significance of the proposed race extends beyond a single country.
“I think for me, it’s a place that deserves to have a grand prix. It’s about more than just one country. It’s about the continent itself,” Hamilton said.
Human rights criticism follows Rwanda's F1 agreement
The deal, announced by Formula One and the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) on 13 October, has attracted criticism from human rights organisations. Amnesty International UK described the agreement as “a sportswashing prize for the Rwandan authorities”, arguing that the event could help improve the country's international image while diverting attention from alleged abuses.
These are allegations made by the organisation, not findings established by the race announcement. Amnesty International outlined its objections following the announcement.
Hamilton addressed the issue without dismissing the concerns, saying the race should encourage greater understanding of Africa's history and present-day realities.
“Of course, going there doesn’t mean that you neglect the things that are happening there,” he said.
The planned event will use a new circuit in Bugesera, approximately 40 kilometres south of Kigali, near the new international airport. The track must be completed before the race can take place, and officials have yet to confirm an inaugural date.
Could Hamilton stay in Formula One long enough?
Hamilton, who turns 42 in January 2027, has a Ferrari contract covering the 2027 season. The prospect of racing in Africa could give him extra motivation to continue beyond that point, although he has not committed to staying until the event.
“I have to keep fighting to try and stay fit. If I can still punch out good results over the next year, we’ll keep it going,” he said.
Africa last hosted a Formula One race at South Africa's Kyalami circuit in 1993. For Hamilton, the proposed return is both a long-standing ambition and a chance to bring the sport closer to African fans.
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Lewis Hamilton's long-standing dream of an African Grand Prix
Briefly News previously reported that Lewis Hamilton vowed to keep racing until he could compete in an African Grand Prix.
The Ferrari star praised Rwanda, Kenya and South Africa as potential hosts in March 2026. Now, Rwanda's proposed F1 race has brought his long-standing ambition closer to reality.
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Source: Briefly News
