Lewis Hamilton has stated that Formula 1’s planned return to Africa in the early 2030s provides a compelling reason to prolong his career. The seven-time world champion, currently a Ferrari driver, expressed a long-held ambition to compete on the continent.
Formula 1 officially announced a 10-year agreement on October 13, 2026, to host an African Grand Prix in Rwanda. This landmark deal will see the sport return to Africa for the first time since the 1993 South African Grand Prix at Kyalami.
The proposed event will take place at a new purpose-built circuit in Bugesera, approximately 40 kilometers south of Rwanda’s capital, Kigali. The circuit is planned to be adjacent to the new Kigali International Airport, which is expected to open in 2028.
The Bugesera circuit is being designed to FIA Grade 1 standards, the highest classification for international motor racing. Its development is a collaboration between WurzDesign, led by former F1 driver Alex Wurz, and Tilke Engineers & Architects.
Initial plans for the circuit indicate it will stretch approximately six kilometers, feature 17 corners, and run anti-clockwise. Designers anticipate a record-setting elevation gain of 197 meters per lap, utilizing Rwanda’s natural landscape.
Hamilton revealed he has been advocating for an African race for many years. He held numerous meetings with Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali and engaged with various African political leaders to advance the project.
Domenicali described the agreement as a ‘landmark moment’ for Formula 1, noting that the sport will now race on every inhabited continent. FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem called it a ‘historic moment’ for motorsport.
Ben Sulayem suggested that Rwanda’s entry could initiate a motorsport expansion across Africa, drawing parallels with the growth seen in the Middle East over the past two decades.
The Rwandan Grand Prix is part of a broader strategy by the Rwanda Development Board to boost sports, tourism, infrastructure, and commercial development. President Paul Kagame views the race as a milestone for the continent.
Rwanda’s bid was successful despite rival proposals from South Africa and Morocco. South Africa’s Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, stated his country still aims to host an F1 race.
The decision to host the Grand Prix in Rwanda has generated discussion regarding the country’s human rights record and alleged involvement in the Democratic Republic of Congo conflict. Hamilton acknowledged these concerns, advocating for humility and increased awareness.
Hamilton, who will be 45 in 2030, is currently under contract with Ferrari for at least the 2027 season, with discussions about a potential extension into 2028. He earns a base salary of $60 million annually with the team.
The seven-time champion’s comments were made during a press conference ahead of the United States Grand Prix in Austin, Texas. The event is scheduled for October 23-25, 2026, with practice sessions commencing today.
In other driver news, Kimi Antonelli, Hamilton’s successor at Mercedes, is currently leading the 2026 F1 World Championship. He has a mathematical opportunity to secure the title this weekend in Austin.
Valtteri Bottas, Hamilton’s former Mercedes teammate, is now driving for the new Cadillac team in 2026. Cadillac, which uses Ferrari power units, also fields Sergio Perez.
