Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has renewed his call for a Formula One race in Africa, saying he hopes the sport will return to the continent before he retires.
Speaking in Melbourne on Thursday, Hamilton explained that he has spent years pushing for an African Grand Prix behind the scenes. Africa remains the only continent without a race on the Formula One calendar, despite the sport’s global expansion.
“I’ve been fighting in the background to get a Grand Prix,” Hamilton said. “I’ve been sitting with stakeholders and asking the question: why are we not in Africa? There’s one on every other continent, so why not Africa?”
The British driver added that discussions have taken place with several countries as Formula One considers potential new locations.
Potential African Grand Prix locations
Hamilton has travelled widely across Africa and highlighted several countries that could host a future Formula One race.
“South Africa is stunning,” he said, suggesting it could be an ideal location for a Grand Prix. He also praised Rwanda, describing it as “spectacular,” while Kenya was another country he said he loved visiting.
However, Hamilton admitted that Kenya may not currently be the most realistic venue for a race. The former world champion said organisers have explored several options as they continue evaluating the possibility of bringing Formula One back to the continent.
A personal mission for Hamilton to have a Formula One race in Africa
For Hamilton, the campaign for an African Formula One race is deeply personal. The British driver has African heritage and has visited countries including Benin, Senegal and Nigeria.
“I don’t want to leave the sport without having a Grand Prix there, without getting to race there,” Hamilton said.
He explained that he is proud of his roots, which trace back to Benin and Togo, and believes Africa deserves greater recognition on the global sporting stage.
Hamilton also praised the continent’s beauty and potential, saying it has left a lasting impression on him during his travels.
Will Formula One return to Africa and give Lewis Hamilton his wish?
Although a race has not yet been confirmed, momentum around a potential Formula One African Grand Prix continues to grow. With the sport expanding into new markets and fan bases worldwide, Africa remains a major missing piece on the F1 calendar.
Hamilton’s continued advocacy ensures the conversation remains active. And if the seven-time champion gets his wish, Formula One fans could soon witness the long-awaited return of a Grand Prix on African soil—before Hamilton’s own racing career reaches its final lap.
