Lewis Hamilton Hopes to Extend F1 Career to Race in Rwanda Grand Prix

Posted : 23 October 2026

Seven-time Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton has revealed that the planned return of the sport to Africa could persuade him to extend his racing career into his mid-40s. The Ferrari driver welcomed the decision to stage the African Grand Prix in Rwanda, describing the opportunity to compete on the continent as a long-standing personal ambition.

Speaking ahead of this weekend’s United States Grand Prix, the 41-year-old said he was determined to remain competitive for as long as possible so he could participate in the historic race. Formula One announced a 10-year agreement with Rwanda last week, with the inaugural event expected in the early 2030s after the construction of a purpose-built circuit.

Hamilton has consistently advocated for Formula One to return to Africa. The continent last hosted a Grand Prix in 1993, when South Africa staged a race at the Kyalami circuit near Johannesburg. The planned Rwandan event would therefore mark the championship’s return to Africa after more than three decades.

The British driver acknowledged that Rwanda’s selection has attracted criticism and raised questions about the country’s human rights record. He stressed that the concerns should not be ignored, arguing that the decision to race in a particular country requires humility and a willingness to understand the wider circumstances.

Hamilton also called for greater global awareness of Africa’s history, culture and contribution to the world. He reflected on his education in England, saying that he had not been taught enough about the continent while growing up.

The Ferrari star further highlighted the historical impact of colonialism and foreign intervention on African countries. He expressed hope that Formula One’s return would encourage more people to learn about the continent’s past, understand its present challenges and engage in meaningful conversations about its future.

Hamilton’s comments came during a press conference alongside Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli, who is 20 years old and emerging as one of the sport’s leading talents. Hamilton praised the young Italian and joked that the prospect of racing in Africa had given him another reason to remain in Formula One for longer.

Antonelli encouraged the veteran champion to stay in the sport long enough to compete in the inaugural African Grand Prix. Hamilton responded that he would continue working to maintain his fitness and would consider extending his career if he could continue delivering strong performances.

The seven-time world champion is currently contracted to Ferrari through the 2027 season. If the Rwandan race takes place as planned in the early 2030s, Hamilton would need to continue competing well beyond his current contract to fulfil his ambition.

The planned Grand Prix is expected to take place at a new circuit in Bugesera, near Rwanda’s capital, Kigali. Beyond the sporting spectacle, organisers anticipate that the project could support tourism, investment, infrastructure development and opportunities for local talent.

For Hamilton, however, the prospect represents more than another race on the calendar. It is an opportunity to compete in a part of the world whose inclusion in Formula One he has championed for years, and he appears determined to give himself a chance to be there when the championship finally returns.

Lewis Hamilton Hopes to Extend F1 Career to Race in Rwanda Grand Prix

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