The 41-year-old said Formula One’s planned return to Africa had given him another reason to extend his career, as racing on the continent has long been one of his ambitions.
“I’m now being asked to continue for even longer because we have a race in Africa, and it has always been my dream to race there. I have to keep competing and try to stay fit. If I can continue performing well next year, I will carry on,” Hamilton said.
Hamilton is currently contracted to Ferrari until the end of 2027, but said he could extend his career by at least another four years to be able to compete when Rwanda hosts the race.
Formula One has confirmed that Rwanda will host the African Grand Prix under a 10-year agreement. The race is planned for a purpose-built circuit in Bugesera, near the new international airport, in the early 2030s.
It would mark Formula One’s return to Africa for the first time since 1993, when the continent last hosted a Grand Prix at Kyalami in South Africa.
Hamilton said he was delighted that Formula One would return to Africa, adding that the race could help more people learn about the continent.
“I’m very hopeful about this race. There is so much that people don’t know about Africa. I grew up in the UK, but we were not taught much about Africa. I think it is important to learn more about the continent and educate people about it,” he said.
He added that he would like to see Africa continue to unite and play a greater role in international affairs.
The Rwandan government envisions the planned venue as more than just a Formula One circuit, with ambitions to develop a destination that attracts tourists and contributes to economic growth.
Hamilton said hosting Formula One in Rwanda would provide an opportunity to bring greater international attention to Africa and showcase the continent’s ability to host major global sporting events.
