Lewis Hamilton on Thursday welcomed Formula One’s decision to return to Africa, but revealed reservations over the choice of Rwanda to host the continent’s first grand prix in more than three decades.
The seven-time world champion also said he wanted to stay in F1 racing into his forties to make sure he can fulfil his dream of racing in an African Grand Prix.
Aware of concerns
Speaking to reporters ahead of this weekend’s United States Grand Prix, the Ferrari driver said he was aware of concerns regarding Rwanda and said they should not be overlooked.
“Of course, I don’t get to choose where we go and, naturally, there’s problems all over the world today,” he said.
“I’ve seen many of the stories, but I think we really have to approach it with humility.”
Formula One announced a 10-year agreement to race in Rwanda last week with the race set to join the calendar after a circuit has been built in the early 2030s.
Last Africa race in 1993
The last time an F1 race was held in Africa was the 33rd South African Grand Prix at Kyalami near Johannesburg in 1993 when Hamilton was just eight years old.
“There’s a lot that we don’t know,” added Lewis Hamilton who has called for a return to Africa for many years.
“Growing up in England, they never taught us anything about Africa. It needs to be on the curriculum.
“A lot of the problems they have there are still the results of colonialism and the west intervening, but if you see the people, you see so many designs that are out there today. Top brands come from Africa, and it’s got all the richest resources.
“I really hope, and I still have hopes, that Africa unites. I know there’s many people that don’t want that to happen – because they would be so powerful if they did, but I’m still hopeful that at some stage they will.
“And, of course, going doesn’t mean that you neglect the things that are happening there.
“So hopefully many people start to educate themselves a little more about what is happening, what has happened for hundreds of years and I hope that does spark the conversation.”
Hopes to race into his 40s
Lewis Hamilton, who warmly praised runaway championship leader Kimi Antonelli of Mercedes as he sat alongside him at a news conference, revealed also that he hopes to continue racing into his mid-forties.
“I’m looking forward to racing with him longer. 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.”
“So, you’ve got time,” said the 20-year-old Italian.
“You’ve got to do at least the first one.”
“Yeah,” replied Hamilton.
“I have to keep fighting to try and stay fit if I can. If I can still punch out good results over the next year, we’ll keep it going.”
By Garrin Lambley © Agence France-Presse