Hamilton Aims to Extend F1 Career to Race in Rwanda’s African Grand Prix

Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton said he will remain in Formula One until the early 2030s so he can compete in the continent’s first Grand Prix in more than three decades. Speaking before the United States Grand Prix, Hamilton explained that the prospect of a race in Rwanda “forces” him to stay longer and that he will keep “fighting to stay fit” if he can still deliver strong results over the next year.

The Independent

Formula One announced a ten-year agreement with Rwanda to host an African Grand Prix on a purpose-built circuit in Bugesera, about 25 miles south of Kigali. The first race is slated for the early 2030s, marking the sport’s return to Africa since the 1993 South African Grand Prix at Kyalami. Rwanda’s government and the Rwanda Development Board view the event as a catalyst for tourism and broader economic growth, adding it to a recent slate of high-profile sporting events that include the cycling road world championships and the Basketball Africa League.

ESPN

Hamilton has championed an African race for years, arguing that the continent has been “overlooked” and that schools should teach more about Africa’s history and culture. His personal goal aligns with the broader F1 narrative that sport can showcase “the rich culture” of under-represented regions.

ESPN

• Ten-year F1-Rwanda agreement, with the inaugural race scheduled for the early 2030s.

The Guardian

• Hamilton is 41; he would be at least 45 when the Rwanda Grand Prix occurs.

ESPN

• The current oldest driver on the grid is 45-year-old Fernando Alonso.

The Guardian

• The Bugesera circuit is still under construction; no fixed calendar date has been set.

The Guardian

Formula One confirmed the partnership with Rwanda, describing the race as a “new chapter” for the sport’s global expansion. The Rwanda Development Board emphasized that the venue will serve both motorsport fans and the country’s economic ambitions.

ESPN

• “A 10-year grand prix ‘presented by Visit Rwanda’ is a sportswashing prize for the Rwandan authorities,” — Felix Jakens

The Guardian

• “I'm looking forward to racing with him longer and we'll see about ... I mean, I'm now forced to have 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,” — Lewis Hamilton, seven-time world champion

ESPN

The Bugesera circuit is under development, with construction expected to continue through the early 2030s. Hamilton’s current contract with Ferrari runs through the end of the 2027 season; he has indicated an intention to extend his career beyond that point to be present for the Rwanda event. No specific race date has been announced, but the ten-year agreement ensures the Grand Prix will remain on the calendar for a decade once the venue is completed.

The Guardian