Seven-time Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton has declared he will not retire until a Grand Prix returns to Africa, a continent absent from the F1 calendar since 1993. Speaking ahead of the 2026 season-opening Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne, Hamilton reaffirmed his dedication to seeing the sport rekindle its presence on African soil, highlighting the importance of this milestone for both himself and the continent.
Potential African Hosts Identified by Hamilton
During Thursday’s press conference at Melbourne’s Albert Park Circuit, Hamilton shared insights into his visits across ten African countries, singling out Rwanda and South Africa as leading candidates to host a future Grand Prix. Reflecting on his experiences, Hamilton highlighted his affinity for these nations, emphasizing their appeal as suitable locations for the global motorsport event.
I think the ones that I have enjoyed the most so far — I loved Kenya. I don’t think we’re going to have a Grand Prix in Kenya, but Rwanda, in particular was spectactular — somewhere it felt like I could live,
said Hamilton
He also expressed admiration for South Africa’s beauty and enthusiasm for the sport. Hamilton stated his desire to race in Africa before ending his career, actively pursuing opportunities to make this a reality.
South Africa is stunning, and I think those are the ones that would be good places for us to potentially go to. I don’t want to leave the sport without having a Grand Prix there, without getting to race there so I’m chasing them, like when is it going to be.
Behind-the-Scenes Efforts to Revive F1 in Africa
Hamilton revealed that for several years he has been in dialogue with key stakeholders to help bring Formula One back to Africa. At 41 years old, racing on the continent carries personal significance for him, connecting to his African heritage. He stressed that unity among African leaders would be vital in regaining a place in the global motorsport arena.
I am really hoping that the people who are running those countries will unite and come together and take Africa back — that’s what I want to see. Take it back from the French, Spanish, Portuguese and the British. It’s so important for the future of the continent. I mean they have all the resources to be the greatest and most powerful place in the world, and that’s probably why they’re being controlled the way they are.
Sports Ministry’s Support for South Africa F1 Return
South Africa’s Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, recently confirmed that the sports ministry has secured funding aimed at supporting Formula One’s comeback to the nation. McKenzie also noted the eagerness of sponsors to back the initiative, reflecting strong local and international interest in restoring the motorsport spectacle to South African circuits.
Significance of an African Grand Prix in F1’s Future
Hamilton’s advocacy for the return of Formula One to Africa underscores both a personal ambition and a broader cultural imperative to spotlight the continent on the world stage. A revived African Grand Prix would mark a historic moment in the sport’s expansion while fostering economic, social, and sporting benefits for host countries. As discussions continue among African leaders and international sporting bodies, the return of F1 to Africa could accelerate new investments and inspire a generation of African motorsport fans and talent.
