Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton says he does not want to retire from Formula 1 before racing in a grand prix in Africa.
The British driver revealed that he has pushed the sport’s leadership for years to bring a race back to the continent.
Hamilton said he has asked F1 officials the same question repeatedly. Why is there still no race in Africa?
“I don’t want to leave the sport without racing there,” Hamilton explained. “I keep asking when it will happen.”
The Mercedes legend believes an African race would be special for him. Hamilton’s father has Afro-Caribbean roots, while his mother is white. He became the first Black driver in the history of Formula One.
He said the sport’s leadership is trying to make it happen. However, there is still no confirmed plan for a race in Africa.
Africa Still Missing From F1 Calendar
Despite discussions, Africa remains absent from the F1 calendar. Experts believe the continent may not host a race before the end of this decade.
Rwanda was recently linked with hosting a race. However, that proposal has faded.
In recent years, organisers also discussed a return to South Africa. Plans included races at Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit or a street race in Cape Town. Those talks also collapsed.
Kyalami hosted Formula 1 races between 1967 and 1985. The circuit also returned briefly in 1992 and 1993.
Hamilton remains passionate about seeing F1 return to Africa.
Hamilton Speaks About Africa’s Future
Hamilton also shared strong views about the economic challenges facing many African countries.
He said the continent holds huge natural resources and potential. However, wealthier nations often benefit more from those resources.
Hamilton hopes African leaders work together to strengthen the continent’s future.
He believes Africa has the potential to become one of the most powerful regions in the world.
Hamilton Rediscovered Himself After Tough Season
Hamilton also spoke about his personal journey after a difficult season with Scuderia Ferrari in 2025.
Before the new season begins at the Australian Grand Prix, Hamilton admitted he struggled with confidence last year.
During the season, he criticised his own performances and even called himself “useless”.
Over the winter, he focused on rebuilding his mindset and fitness.
Hamilton said intense training and a positive mindset helped him regain confidence.
“I rediscovered who I am,” he explained. “For a moment I lost sight of that, but that version of me is gone.”
Ferrari Feeling More United
Hamilton now feels more comfortable inside the Ferrari team. He said the team environment feels very different from his previous experiences at Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team and McLaren.
After one full season with Ferrari, Hamilton understands the team culture much better.
He said the team now works together more smoothly and feels united.
Ferrari failed to win a race during the 2025 season. However, the team remains optimistic about the future.
Major rule changes are coming to Formula 1, and Ferrari hopes they can become more competitive.
Hamilton believes the team has learned from last season’s struggles.
“We are leaving the negatives behind,” he said. “We are focused on the positives and ready for the challenge.”
His teammate Charles Leclerc also believes the team is in a strong position.
Leclerc said it is better to manage high expectations than deal with negativity inside the team.
Ferrari now hopes the new season will bring better results.
