After nearly two decades of unprecedented success in Formula 1, Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time world champion, has an unrealized aspiration: to race on African soil. As his illustrious career nears its final lap, Hamilton has publicly declared his desire to see Formula 1 return to Africa—a continent that has been absent from the sport's calendar for three decades.
“My Biggest Dream”: Hamilton’s African Ambition
Although he has competed on circuits across the world since his debut in 2007, the 39-year-old British driver aspires to bring the sport back to Africa, a place he sees as key to Formula 1's global appeal .
“I talked about Africa, and we have, potentially, Rwanda on the table, which is incredible,” Hamilton revealed. “I just hope it gets done in time before I leave. That’s my biggest dream, to make sure I can race there before I retire.”
Hamilton's comments revive hopes of a Grand Prix on the African continent, a dream that aligns with Formula 1's ongoing efforts to expand its global footprint. South Africa's iconic Kyalami circuit has been at the center of these discussions, with talks between Formula 1 and the FIA intensifying in recent years. If deals come to fruition, the 4.529 kilometer Kyalami circuit could soon return to the F1 calendar, marking the sport's first African race since 1993.
Beyond the records: Hamilton's legacy mission
More than just a driver, Hamilton has become an ambassador for Formula 1, using his platform to promote diversity, sustainability and greater global representation in the sport. Racing in Africa would not only fulfill his personal dream, but also symbolize his wider mission to bring Formula 1 to untapped markets.
The move to Mercedes for 2025, widely seen as Hamilton's swan song in the sport, offers a narrow window for that dream to become a reality. The potential addition of an African Grand Prix would add an emotional and historical dimension to Hamilton's farewell tour.
Looking towards Las Vegas: Dancing under the lights
While the African Grand Prix remains a dream, Hamilton's immediate attention is focused on Formula 1's next spectacle: the Las Vegas Grand Prix. After a chaotic inaugural event in 2023, the race is set to return next week with promises of improvement. Hamilton shared his enthusiasm for the night race, remembering its electrifying atmosphere:
“Dancing under the lights at night was simply incredible. I think they made a lot of changes to make it even better this year.”
The 2023 Las Vegas Grand Prix saw Hamilton finish a modest seventh amid a tumultuous race, while Mercedes struggled with the W15's shortcomings. As the 2024 season continues to challenge the Silver Arrows, Hamilton remains optimistic, although another top-five finish may prove difficult on the fast and glittering streets of Vegas.
Kyalami in the spotlight: will Africa welcome Formula 1 again?
The potential return of Africa to the Formula 1 calendar would represent a monumental shift for the sport. Negotiations around the Kyalami circuit have gained momentum, but obstacles remain. If successful, the Grand Prix would not only realize Hamilton's dream but also reconnect Formula 1 with a continent rich in motorsport history and potential.
For Lewis Hamilton, the chance to race in Africa is more than just adding another trophy to his cabinet. It's about leaving a legacy that transcends the track—connecting the sport he loves with a region that has long been pushed aside.
As his career nears its conclusion, one question remains: Will Formula 1 grant Lewis Hamilton his African dream before the final checkered flag?
