Hamilton’s Africa dream could reshape Formula 1

March 16, 2026 Aksel Kryhlmand

The seven time world champion has repeatedly spoken about the issue in interviews and public appearances. According to reporting from Motorsport.com journalist Jonathan Noble, Hamilton believes the global championship should race on every inhabited continent and that Africa’s absence is a gap the sport should address.

Formula 1 currently hosts 24 races across Europe, Asia, the Americas and Australia, but Africa has not staged a Grand Prix since the 1993 South African Grand Prix at Kyalami. That race marked the end of an era for the continent in the sport.

Hamilton, who has often spoken about his connection to Africa and its global representation, has said he hopes to compete there before ending his career.

According to BBC Sport motorsport correspondent Andrew Benson, several possible host locations have been discussed by Formula 1 management and regional promoters as the sport continues expanding its global calendar.

Why Africa has been missing from the F1 calendar

Formula 1 is the world’s highest level of single seat motorsport and one of the most watched global sports leagues. Each season features races known as Grand Prix events held on specially approved circuits that must meet strict FIA Grade 1 safety and infrastructure standards.

While Africa hosted races regularly in the past, particularly in South Africa, the continent gradually disappeared from the calendar during the 1990s as economic challenges and political changes reshaped the sport’s global footprint.

In recent years, Formula 1 has aggressively expanded into new markets such as Saudi Arabia, Miami and Las Vegas. That expansion has renewed discussion about bringing a race back to Africa to complete the sport’s presence across all inhabited continents.

Kyalami in South Africa seen as the most realistic option

Many motorsport observers believe South Africa’s Kyalami circuit is the most practical way to return Formula 1 to Africa.

Located near Johannesburg, the historic track hosted numerous Grand Prix races throughout the twentieth century and was the site of the continent’s most recent Formula 1 event in 1993.

The circuit has since been renovated and currently holds FIA Grade 2 certification, meaning it would require further upgrades to meet Formula 1 standards.

According to Motorsport.com, Kyalami’s existing infrastructure and established motorsport fan base make it the quickest path to bringing a Grand Prix back to the continent.

Cape Town proposal could create one of F1’s most scenic races

Another proposal that has drawn attention is a potential Cape Town street circuit.

The concept involves a temporary street track near the city’s waterfront and around the Green Point stadium, the venue built for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

Supporters of the idea argue that a race with Table Mountain and the Atlantic coastline as a backdrop could instantly become one of the most visually distinctive events on the Formula 1 calendar.

According to reporting by The Race motorsport publication, the concept has been discussed by promoters and city officials as a way to attract tourism and international exposure.

However, building and operating a temporary street circuit would require significant financial backing and logistical planning.

Rwanda’s ambitious plan for a new Formula 1 circuit

Rwanda has also emerged as a potential long term contender.

Government officials have publicly expressed interest in hosting a Grand Prix and have discussed the possibility of building a new purpose built racing circuit near Kigali.

According to BBC Sport, Rwanda has been exploring partnerships with Formula 1 and international investors to develop a modern motorsport facility.

Because the project would require constructing an entirely new venue, it is widely viewed as a longer term possibility rather than an immediate option.

Africa’s return to Formula 1 could reshape the sport’s global map

For Formula 1, adding an African race would fill the final geographical gap on its modern calendar.

For Hamilton, the issue carries deeper meaning. The British driver has often spoken about representation and the importance of making the sport feel more global and inclusive.

A return to Africa would not only restore a historic part of Formula 1’s past, but could also introduce the championship to millions of new fans across the continent.

Sources: BBC Sport, Motorsport.com