Hamilton says African grand prix could extend his F1 career

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 23 Oct, 01:50 · Archive

Lewis Hamilton says the prospect of racing in Africa could prolong his Formula One career after the sport confirmed a deal with Rwanda for a grand prix in the early 2030s.

Lewis Hamilton says the prospect of racing in Africa could extend his time in Formula One. The seven-time world champion, who will be 42 in January and has a contract through 2027, said on Thursday in Austin, Texas: 'I'm now forced to stay a lot longer because we have a race in Africa, and that's been my dream, to be able to race in Africa.' He added that he would 'have to keep fighting to try and stay fit' and that if he could produce good results, 'we'll keep it going'.

Formula One has secured a deal with Rwanda for a grand prix in the early 2030s. Africa last hosted a Formula One race at South Africa's Kyalami circuit in 1993. Hamilton, the sport's first and only Black champion, has long advocated for racing on the continent. He said he had held 'many meetings with different presidents from different countries' to push for a race. 'I think for me, it's a place that deserves to have a grand prix,' he said. 'It's about more than just one country. It's about the continent itself.'

Hamilton noted that an African race would raise awareness of the continent, though he acknowledged there were concerns about hosting a grand prix there. Kimi Antonelli, the 20-year-old championship leader who replaced Hamilton at Mercedes, encouraged him to compete in at least the first African race.

How it is being reported

• Hamilton says African race could keep him going in F1Formula One superstar Lewis Hamilton has long been an advocate for a GP in Africa, and says the possibility of racing there could prolong his driving career.The West Australian · 23 Oct, 01:22
• Hamilton says African race could keep him going in F1Formula One superstar Lewis Hamilton has long been an advocate for a GP in Africa, and says the possibility of racing there could prolong his driving career.Perth Now · 23 Oct, 01:22

In this story: Lewis Hamilton · Formula One · Rwanda · Fernando Alonso · Aston Martin · Mercedes · Kimi Antonelli · Africa

This summary was written by AI from the headlines and standfirsts above, and states as fact only what at least two outlets report. How we use AI · Report a problem