Formula 1 is officially heading back to the African continent for the first time since 1993, but the exact location has caught the global motorsport community completely off guard. Bypassing the historic Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit in South Africa, Formula 1 is actively finalizing a massive deal to bring a race to Rwanda by the 2030 season.
For Ferrari driver Lewis Hamilton, the announcement represents a massive personal victory. The seven-time world champion has spent years aggressively lobbying Formula 1 executives behind the scenes to secure a race on the continent.
Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari
Lewis Hamilton has never been shy about his ultimate goal for the Formula 1 calendar, previously stating he would delay his eventual retirement until the sport officially locked in an African return.
The veteran driver reiterated exactly why the new race is a fundamental necessity for the world championship. "I've always said that we need to have a grand prix in Africa," Lewis Hamilton stated. "It is, for me, the most important continent, to be honest, and the most beautiful continent."
Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari
Lewis Hamilton has repeatedly publicly encouraged F1 president Stefano Domenicali to prioritise adding a race in Africa, and the seven-time world champion is pleased with the Italian's efforts. "It is something I've been pushing for in the background, and Stefano has been amazing," Lewis Hamilton added. "He's flown to Africa so many times over the last couple of years, speaking to lots and lots of different people, so I hope that he has some news for me soon."
Formula 1 already has a packed 24-race schedule confirmed for upcoming seasons, but the hosting deals of several circuits expire before 2030.
Lewis Hamilton currently sits in 3 place in the drivers' standings with 214 points.
Source: Motorsport
