Lewis Hamilton shares his vision for a Formula 1 Grand Prix in Africa, expressing his commitment to the continent and the importance of representation in the sport.
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The celebrated British Formula 1 champion, Lewis Hamilton, has made a heartfelt commitment: he will not retire until he races in Africa.
His fervent campaign for a Grand Prix on the continent underscores his deep connection to Africa and his desire to see the sport represented there.
“I don’t want to leave the sport without having a Grand Prix there. Without getting to race there,” Hamilton stated, highlighting the significance of this goal.
For the past six to seven years, he has been actively advocating for the inclusion of Africa in the Formula 1 calendar, engaging with stakeholders and questioning, “Why are we not in Africa? We are on every other continent; why not Africa?”
Hamilton has visited ten countries across Africa and believes there is still much more to explore.
He acknowledged that while it may take a couple of years for the race to materialise, discussions are ongoing, and stakeholders are working diligently to bring his vision to life.
Among the countries Hamilton considers capable of hosting a Grand Prix are Kenya, Rwanda and South Africa.
“I think those are the ones that would potentially be the good places for us to go to,” he added, expressing his confidence in Africa's potential to host such a prestigious event.
As someone who identifies as half African, Hamilton expressed his determination to remain in the sport until this dream is realised.
He also shared his roots in Benin, Senegal, and Nigeria, having recently travelled to these countries.
“It’s something that I’m really proud of. I’m really proud of that part of the world. I think it’s the most beautiful part of the world,” he said.
However, Hamilton voiced his concerns about the exploitation of Africa, stating, “I don’t like that the rest of the world owns much of it and takes so much from it, and no one speaks of it.”
He hopes that the various countries across the continent will unite and reclaim their narrative.
“That’s what I want to see,” he concluded.
Hamilton's dedication to bringing Formula 1 to Africa not only highlights his personal connection to the continent but also underscores the importance of representation in motorsport.
As discussions continue, fans and stakeholders alike eagerly await the day when the roar of F1 engines can be heard across Africa.