Lewis Hamilton Pledges to Race Until 46 to Fulfill Africa Grand Prix Dream

Seven-time Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton has announced his intention to continue racing until at least 2031, driven by a long-held ambition to compete in Africa.

At 41, Hamilton, who will be 46 if the planned Grand Prix in Rwanda materializes in 2031, stated that the prospect of racing on the continent, from which his paternal family originates, has influenced his decision to extend his career. The last Formula One race held in Africa was in Kyalami, South Africa, in 1993.

"I'm now forced to stay a bit longer because we have a race in Africa and that has been my dream to race in Africa," Hamilton said ahead of the US Grand Prix in Austin, Texas. "So, I’m going to have to keep fighting to stay fit. If I can keep punching out results over the next years, we will keep it going."

The proposed circuit is reportedly being built in Bugesera, 25 miles south of Kigali, Rwanda. The exact start year for the race remains undecided, with 2031 being the earliest possibility, potentially shifting to 2032 depending on development progress.

The potential inclusion of Rwanda has drawn scrutiny due to its human rights record and accusations of "sportswashing." The "Visit Rwanda" brand has previously sponsored Arsenal and is currently the main shirt sponsor for Aston Villa.

Amnesty International UK's head of campaigns, Felix Jakes, has expressed concerns that Rwanda is using major sports events to improve its image and distract from human rights issues. "Formula One must not be a bystander," Jakes stated, urging the sport to leverage its influence to push for change rather than engage in a public relations exercise.

Concerns over Rwanda's alleged support for the M23 rebel group in the Democratic Republic of Congo, which has led to widespread displacement and casualties, have been raised by the United Nations and Western governments, though Rwanda denies these accusations.