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Lewis Hamilton has once again voiced his strong belief that that Formula 1 must return to Africa. In a series of recent statements, Hamilton emphasized the importance of bringing Formula 1 back to the continent, which has not hosted a race since 1993.
"The time's 100 percent right," he stated emphatically. "We can't be adding races in other locations and continue to ignore Africa, which the rest of the world just takes from. No one gives anything to Africa."
He revealed that he has been working behind the scenes with officials from Rwanda and South Africa to make this dream a reality. "I've spoken to people in Rwanda, I've spoken to people in South Africa. That's a longer project, Rwanda, but it's amazing that they're so keen to get a part of it." His efforts are part of a larger push to bring a Grand Prix back to the continent, with Rwanda emerging as a potential host.
He believes that hosting a Grand Prix in Africa would have far-reaching benefits. "I think having a grand prix there will really be able to highlight just how great the place is and bring in tourism and all sorts of things. Why are we not on that continent?" He asked.
One of the main obstacles to bringing Formula 1 back to Africa has been the lack of suitable infrastructure. However, Hamilton dismissed this excuse, pointing out that there are already tracks that could host a race. "The current excuse is that maybe there's not a track that's ready, but there is at least one track (Kyalami) that's ready. In the short term, we should just have that as part of the calendar and then work on building something."
Hamilton's advocacy for Africa is part of his broader mission to use his platform for positive change. During his recent trip to Africa, he visited several countries, including Morocco, Senegal, Benin, Mozambique, and Madagascar. He reflected on his experiences saying, "I'm still digesting the trip to be honest, going to a refugee camp and seeing the work that is being done there and how people who are displaced are affected." His vision for Africa is one of opportunity, growth, and recognition, and it's a vision that deserves to be realized.
