Lewis Hamilton, the 41-year-old seven-time world champion, has expressed his desire to continue racing in Formula One until he can participate in the African Grand Prix, which is set to be hosted in Rwanda in the early 2030s. Despite criticism regarding Rwanda's human rights record, Hamilton believes it is appropriate for F1 to hold a race there.
Background on the African Grand Prix
Last week, Formula One confirmed that Rwanda will host the African Grand Prix after finalizing a 10-year agreement for the event on a purpose-built circuit. The first race is scheduled to take place on a circuit in Bugesera, located 25 miles south of the capital, Kigali, which has yet to be constructed. This event marks a significant return to the African continent for F1, as the last race was held at Kyalami, South Africa in 1993.
Hamilton has long advocated for a race in Africa. Currently contracted with Ferrari until the end of the 2027 season, he stated his intention to race for at least another four years to reach the meeting in Rwanda.
““I’m now forced to have to stay a lot longer because we have a race in Africa and that’s been my dream to be able to race in Africa,” Hamilton said. “So, I have to keep fighting to try and stay fit if I can. If I can still punch out good results over the next year, we’ll keep it going.”
If Hamilton continues racing until 2030, he would be in his mid-40s, while the current oldest driver in F1 is Fernando Alonso, who is 45 years old.
