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Formula 1 Africa 2026: Will Lewis Hamilton Bring F1 Back to Africa?
For Lewis Hamilton, the return of Formula 1 to Africa is a point of contention, as he is very outspoken in his desire to see it return to motherland peats by 2026. The Briton driver is one of the biggest names that have taken part in the sport and thinks that, after being off the racing calendar for years, Africa is the future for Formula 1.
The Last Time Africa Hosted F1
For more than three decades now, the sport of Formula 1 has remained absent from the calendar in Africa, with the last Grand Prix having taken place in South Africa between 1962 and 1993, and Morocco in 1958. It therefore grew big around the world, leaving a gap in one of the most promising regions in the world. For many years, African fans and stakeholders wished that F1 returned; this time, the momentum is much stronger than ever.
Lewis Hamilton’s African Advocacy
Lewis Hamilton’s recent visit to Benin, the lands of Danhomey, seemed to have reignited his connection with Africa. Probably one of the most recognizable figures in motorsport, he then started pressing for the sport’s return to Africa, with particularly South Africa and Rwanda having expressed interest in hosting Formula 1 Africa.
The seven-time world champion stated: “We can’t add races elsewhere and continue to ignore Africa.” Hamilton’s conversations behind the scenes with key figures in South Africa and Rwanda highlight the continent’s growing ambitions in motorsports.
Formula 1’s Potential Return in 2026
In fact, the demand for the Grand Prix on African soil has grown so much that it has taken the attention of F1 management and more precisely Stefano Domenicali, President of FIA. The return to 2026 will be discussed since the calendar is already complete for 2025. Such an F1 Grand Prix in Africa will require immense investment and infrastructure, but countries like Rwanda are already making their way to pursue this dream.
Countries Competing to Host Formula 1 in Africa
But leading this F1 resurgence are South Africa and Rwanda. The latter has been the most active, with meetings held between officials and FIA representatives during the Monaco Grand Prix and a successful winning of the hosting right for the FIA’s Annual General Assembly in December of 2024. Under the leadership of President Paul Kagame, the country is making sure it is one of the frontrunners, with plans for a permanent circuit already under consideration.
Additionally, South Africa, which previously hosted the Grand Prix, has historical significance and is still considered a favorite due to its established motorsport culture. Meanwhile, Morocco’s ambitions are also not to be ignored, as the country looks to reclaim its spot in F1 history.
Why Formula 1 Needs Africa
Partially because of its rise through global sports sponsorships, coupled with tourism campaigns and rising infrastructure, it is also the next natural direction in which to take Formula 1. Therein also lies potential for new markets, increased tourism, and economic developments which, in turn, would be a win-win situation for both the sport and the continent. Hosting Formula 1 in Africa in places like Rwanda and South Africa can become new motorsport hubs in these regions and leave a legacy that will be cherished with the people for many, many years to come.