Seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton has doubled down on his dream of racing in Africa before he retires, with Rwanda emerging as a potential destination. As Kigali prepares to host the FIA Annual General Assembly and Prize Giving Ceremony this December, Hamilton’s advocacy for a Grand Prix in the region gains momentum.
“I’ve been talking about Africa, and we’ve got Rwanda potentially on the map, which is great,” Hamilton told GP Fans. “I hope it comes in time, before I’m gone. That’s my biggest dream, to make sure I can race there before I retire.”
Hamilton’s push for an African Grand Prix aligns with growing discussions about bringing Formula 1 back to the continent. The last African GP was held at South Africa’s Kyalami circuit in 1993, but Rwanda has recently emerged as a serious candidate. F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali met with Rwandan officials in September 2024, further fueling speculation about the nation hosting a future race.
Hamilton has expressed his personal connection to Rwanda and its potential role in the F1 calendar. “Rwanda is one of my favourite places,” he said. “I’ve been doing a lot of work in the background on it. I’ve spoken to people in Rwanda, I’ve spoken to people in South Africa. That’s a longer project, Rwanda. But it’s amazing that they’re so keen to be a part of it.”
As Hamilton prepares to join Ferrari in 2025 and aim for a record-breaking eighth world title, his efforts to influence F1’s global reach underline his legacy both on and off the track. Rwanda hosting an F1 race would mark a historic return of the sport to Africa and fulfill a dream close to Hamilton’s heart.
Source: GP Fans
