BREAKING NEW’S, Lewis Hamilton Backs African Grand Prix as Rwanda and South Africa Compete for F1 Race … Read more
- Lewis Hamilton Backs African Grand Prix as Rwanda and South Africa Compete for F1 Race
Rwanda Leads the Bid for F1 Return
Rwanda has emerged as a strong contender to host an F1 Grand Prix. In December 2024, President Paul Kagame formally announced the country’s bid to host the race. The proposed circuit, designed by former F1 driver Alexander Wurz, is planned near Bugesera International Airport, about 40 kilometers from Kigali. This move aligns with Rwanda’s broader ambition to establish itself as a global sports hub and boost tourism.
Hamilton’s Support for African Grand Prix
- Seven-tizme world champion Lewis Hamilton has been actively supporting initiatives to bring F1 back to Africa. He has engaged with officials in Rwanda and South Africa to facilitate the return. Hamilton stated, “We can’t be adding races in other locations and continue to ignore Africa, which the rest of the world just takes from. No one gives anything to Africa.” He believes that an African Grand Prix would showcase the continent’s beauty and stimulate tourism.
FIA Endorses Rwanda’s Bid
Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) President Mohammed Ben Sulayem has backed Rwanda’s bid, stating, “Africa deserves an F1 event, and Rwanda is the best place.” His support highlights the growing recognition of Africa’s potential in the motorsport industry.
Challenges Facing Rwanda’s Bid
Despite the enthusiasm, Rwanda’s bid faces significant challenges. The estimated cost of building the circuit is over $270 million— a substantial investment for a country with a GDP of $14.1 billion. Additionally, critics have raised concerns about “sportswashing,” fearing that hosting such a high-profile event might divert attention from domestic issues.
South Africa Also in Contention
South Africa remains a strong alternative for an African F1 race, with the historic Kyalami circuit being a potential venue. Hamilton has engaged with South African stakeholders and acknowledged the country’s readiness to host a Grand Prix. He commented, “There is at least one track that’s ready. In the short term, we should just get on that track and have that part of the calendar.”
F1 Calendar Adjustments to Accommodate Africa
Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has suggested that the F1 calendar could undergo major changes to accommodate new venues, including Africa. One potential solution involves European races adopting a rotational hosting model to make space for new locations like Rwanda or South Africa.
Drivers Express Enthusiasm for African Grand Prix
The push for an African Grand Prix has received support from multiple F1 drivers. Reigning world champion Max Verstappen stated, “I would like to race in Africa. We’re very excited to be on that road.” McLaren driver Lando Norris also expressed his support, saying Africa would be “the perfect place” to introduce F1 to new audiences.
FIA Hosts Major Event in Rwanda
In December 2024, the FIA General Assembly and Prize Giving Ceremony were held in Kigali, Rwanda. During the event, President Kagame reiterated Rwanda’s commitment to hosting an F1 race, emphasizing the economic and global benefits it would bring.
The Road Ahead for F1 in Africa
With continued efforts from African nations and the backing of key figures like Lewis Hamilton, the dream of an African Grand Prix is closer to reality. If successful, this would mark a significant milestone in Formula 1’s expansion and bring the sport back to the continent for the first time since the 1993 South African Grand Prix.
