Lewis Hamilton has announced his intention to continue competing in Formula One until at least 2031, motivated by his ambition to participate in the inaugural Rwanda Grand Prix, scheduled for the early 2030s. Currently 41 years old, Hamilton would be around 46 by the time the race is anticipated to debut, though the exact timing depends on the completion of a new circuit planned in Bugesera, approximately 25 to 40 kilometers south of Kigali, Rwanda’s capital.
The seven-time world champion has expressed that the prospect of racing in Africa—a continent tied to his paternal heritage—has encouraged him to extend his career. “I’m now forced to stay a bit longer because we have a race in Africa, and that has been my dream,” Hamilton said ahead of the United States Grand Prix in Austin. He added that maintaining fitness and delivering strong results will be key factors in deciding whether to continue beyond his current contract, which is understood to last through next season with Ferrari.
Hamilton’s campaign for an African Grand Prix has spanned several years, and the announcement of the Rwanda race last week marked a milestone in that effort. The purpose-built track will be located near Kigali International Airport in Bugesera. Formula One officials have described the event, sponsored by Visit Rwanda, as an opportunity to promote tourism, investment, local talent, and community development in the region.
However, the partnership has faced criticism from human rights organizations. Amnesty International UK’s head of campaigns, Felix Jakens, characterized the event as an example of "sportswashing," alleging Rwanda is using high-profile sports sponsorships—including ties to Arsenal and Aston Villa football clubs—to improve its international image despite ongoing reports of human rights abuses. Rwanda has faced accusations related to involvement with the M23 rebel group in the Democratic Republic of Congo conflict, though the Rwandan government denies direct involvement. Amnesty highlighted issues such as arbitrary detention, torture, and suppression of free speech within Rwanda.
Hamilton acknowledged these concerns but urged a nuanced view, stating that while problems exist worldwide, the race could help shine a positive light on the continent. He emphasized the diversity and richness of African culture and resources and expressed hope that the Grand Prix would facilitate greater awareness and conversation about Africa’s history and contemporary challenges. He also spoke about the potential for African unity and stressed the importance of educating people globally about the continent’s legacy and struggles, including ongoing conflicts in countries like Congo, Sudan, Syria, and Palestine.
The forthcoming races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi, scheduled for this season, face uncertainty due to regional conflict, but Formula One officials have affirmed that both events are expected to proceed as planned.
Separately, emerging British driver Freddie Slater, 18, is set to make his Formula One debut during the first practice sessions at the Mexico and Brazil Grands Prix as part of Audi’s driver development program. Slater, who finished second in Formula 3 this year, will compete in Formula 2 for Invicta Racing next season.