Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has outlined his ambition to race into the 2030s to compete in Formula 1’s upcoming African Grand Prix in Rwanda. Formula 1 announced last week that Rwanda will host a round of the world championship in the early 2030s, though organizers have not yet provided a firm date for the inaugural event. Hamilton turns 42 in January and will be 45 years old when the 2030 season begins, leaving him facing a rigorous physical test to secure a seat on the grid for the sport’s first race on the continent since 1993, Sky Sports reported. Speaking ahead of the United States Grand Prix, Hamilton stated: I’m now forced to stay a bit longer because we have a race in Africa and that has been my dream to race in Africa.
Hamilton stays with Ferrari until 2027
Hamilton is currently contesting his second season with Ferrari under a contract running until at least the end of 2027, which includes a potential option to remain with the Italian constructor through 2028. Beyond that timeframe, his long-term future in Formula 1 remains undecided. However, fellow veteran Fernando Alonso has demonstrated that drivers can remain competitive into their mid-40s, with the Spanish driver set to continue racing for Aston Martin next season at the age of 45.
Human Rights Criticism and Calls for Humility
The 10-year deal for Rwanda to host the Grand Prix drew immediate pushback from advocacy groups. Amnesty International criticized the agreement as a sportswashing prize for Rwandan authorities to polish their international image. Responding to the backlash ahead of the United States Grand Prix, Hamilton urged the paddock and the sport to approach the new venue with humility. I don’t get to choose where we go,
Hamilton said. Naturally, there are 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 also noted: There’s a lot that we don’t know. Growing up in England, they never taught us anything about Africa. It needs to be on the curriculum. A lot of the problems they have there are still results of colonialism and the West intervening.
Hamilton further remarked: But if you go and see the people, you see so many designs that are out there today from top brands that come from Africa. It’s got all the richest resources. I really hope, and I still have hope, that Africa unites. I know there are many people who don’t want that to happen because they would be so powerful if they did. But I’m still hopeful that at some stage they will.
Hamilton additionally stated: And, yeah, of course, going there doesn’t mean that you neglect the things that are happening there. So hopefully many people start to educate themselves a little bit more about what is happening there and what has happened there for hundreds of years. I hope that does spark the conversation.
He concluded: And then I guess I’ll finish it off with this: I think we need to make sure we’re pushing to free Congo, free Sudan, free Syria, free Palestine. I think there’s a lot of peace that I’m
Rwanda faces accusations of human rights violations
The controversy surrounding Rwanda’s growing footprint in global sport extends beyond Formula 1. Democratic Republic of Congo has accused Rwanda of backing armed rebel groups and committing human rights violations, prompting past calls from Kinshasa for European football clubs to review their commercial ties. While Arsenal ended its multi-year partnership with Rwanda at the conclusion of last season following pressure from supporter groups, Paris Saint-Germain extended its agreement through 2028. Felix Jakens, Amnesty International UK’s head of campaigns, stated that Formula 1 must use its influence to push for change rather than lend its brand to a public relations exercise.
When was the last African race?
When was the last Formula 1 race held in Africa?
The last Formula 1 race held on the African continent took place in 1993.
How long is the hosting agreement for the Rwandan Grand Prix?
Formula 1 and Rwandan officials agreed to a 10-year deal that brings the Grand Prix to the country starting in the early 2030s.
What is the duration of Lewis Hamilton’s current contract with Ferrari?
Hamilton is signed with Ferrari until at least the end of the 2027 season, with an option included to extend his stay into 2028.