“I will always prefer the older circuits,” Lewis Hamilton confirms F1 won’t replace historic tracks amidst South African GP rumors
Lewis Hamilton says he loves older circuits like Silverstone and Monza.
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Lewis Hamilton (Image via CNN)
Due to the additional new races like the Miami Grand Prix last season and the upcoming Las Vegas Grand Prix, there is pressure on F1’s historic circuits. There was speculation that some of the iconic tracks, such as the Zandvoort circuit, would be removed from the F1 calendar. This is to make space for new circuits. However, Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton does not believe these rumors.
The seven-time world champion claims F1 is balancing between the old and new venues. He spoke to the media and RaceFans about F1’s direction. Hamilton stated, “I like the direction that it’s going. I like the change that we’re seeing. It’s exciting coming to different parts of the world and different circuits.”
Hamilton added, “Of course, I love all the older circuits and I will always prefer the older circuits. Maybe in 20 years, 30 years’ time, some kid will see [Miami] as a historic circuit but this is new for us. But all the old classics, like Hungary and Silverstone and the Zandvoort circuit and Monza, will always be special.”
Lewis Hamilton says it is good to have a balance between old and new tracks
The 38-year-old believes it is vital to continue to have the historic circuits in F1 as it is the DNA of the sport. Lewis Hamilton also revealed that the F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has no plans to get rid of the iconic tracks. He claims it is good to have a balance between the two. Hence, he believes the older tracks will stay on the F1 calendar.
Hamilton has often expressed his desire to race in Africa. He pointed out that F1 have been to other continents and hopes they go to Africa. He believes it would be an amazing experience for the grid, especially to experience the culture. But Hamilton admitted that it is a challenge from an engineer’s and a driver’s perspective to go racing in new places.
In other news, there were whispers that South Africa could join F1 in 2024. However, F1 must find the right partners and have a solid plan to execute it. Domenicali wants to find the best solution for the sport and the country. He is looking at a long-term plan for racing in Africa. This is a piece of good news for Hamilton.
Due to F1’s popularity, there is a demand for more races in the US and the Far East. But despite the money, the organization claims to protect the quality of the sports.
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