“That’s a real big dream for me,” Lewis Hamilton is pushing behind the scenes for F1’s return to South Africa

The South African GP could be on the F1 calendar next year and Lewis Hamilton is also "pushing for it".

“That’s a real big dream for me,” Lewis Hamilton is pushing behind the scenes for F1’s return to South Africa

Lewis Hamilton wearing a bracelet with the South African flag as design (Credits: News 24)

Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time Formula One champion, is lobbying behind the scenes for the South African Grand Prix to be reinstated on the F1 calendar. The event has been off the calendar for 30 years. It was initially planned to return in 2023, but the discussions stalled. Hamilton hopes Formula 1 will return to the continent, particularly to South Africa. 

Ahead of the Miami Grand Prix, Hamilton got candid in an interview with ESPN organised by IWC. He stated, “Hopefully you’ll see that come to life soon as well. And that’s a real big dream for me, to have raced in Africa during my career is a huge huge dream for me.”

YouTube video

Hamilton discussed the Formula One market in South Africa. He is aware of the support he has there. The Briton feels that returning to South Africa would be an excellent chance to collaborate with IWC and interact with the community at large. The Mercedes driver stated, “I know a lot of people are into Formula 1 now there so that would be amazing because just imagine the work we can be doing when we’re in South Africa.”

FS Video

Discover:  When Osama bin Laden’s family sponsored one of the biggest F1 teams in history

Lewis Hamilton sees the potential of F1 expanding to South Africa

Lewis Hamilton with African kids
Lewis Hamilton with kids (Credits: The Times)

Hamilton believes that F1’s presence in the region would open up new avenues for his Mission 44 programme. It seeks to promote diversity and possibilities in racing. The 38-year-old is working with his team to extend Mission 44 to both the United States and Africa. “I see there’s so much opportunity out there for kids…and it’s really hard to believe it if you can’t see it, you know,” he said. 

Hamilton’s desire to see F1 return to South Africa has been met with enthusiasm from fans and also F1 officials. The South African Grand Prix is expected to be held at the historic Kyalami GP Circuit. The venue has previously hosted the event. With F1 pushing for 30 races in one season, there is a high chance for it to return to South Africa.

Hamilton’s personal connection to the African continent adds to the significance of F1’s potential return to South Africa. As the first and only black driver in F1, he has been a powerful voice in promoting diversity and inclusion in the sport.

His advocacy for the return of the South African Grand Prix is not just about his own dreams. It is also about creating new opportunities and representation in motorsport for future generations in the region.

In case you missed it: