Seven-time Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton has said he wants to continue racing into the early 2030s so he can compete in the African Grand Prix, which is scheduled to take place in Rwanda.
The 41-year-old driver said Formula 1’s planned return to Africa had given him fresh motivation to extend his career, as racing on the continent had long been one of his ambitions.
“I now have to keep going for longer because we race Africa, and it has always been my dream to race there. I need to keep competing and try to stay healthy. If I can continue performing well next year, I will carry on,” Hamilton said.
Hamilton is currently contracted to Ferrari until the end of 2027, but indicated that he could extend his career by at least another four years to remain active when Rwanda hosts the race.
Formula 1 recently confirmed that Rwanda would host the African Grand Prix under a 10-year agreement. The race is planned for a purpose-built circuit in Bugesera, near the new international airport, in the early 2030s.
It would mark Formula 1’s first race on the African continent since 1993, when the last South African Grand Prix was held at Kyalami.
Hamilton welcomed the prospect of Formula 1 returning to Africa, saying the event could help raise global awareness of the continent.
“I have great hope for this race. There is so much that people do not know about Africa. I grew up in the UK, but we were not taught much about Africa. I think there is a need to learn more about it and educate people,” he said.
He added that he hoped to see greater unity across Africa and a stronger role for the continent in international affairs.
The Rwandan government expects the planned venue to serve purposes beyond hosting Formula 1 races, including attracting tourists and contributing to economic development.
Hamilton said the race in Rwanda would provide an opportunity to turn greater international attention towards Africa and demonstrate the continent’s ability to host major international sporting events.
KIGALI TIMES