Lewis Hamilton, Max Verstappen and George Russell have all voiced genuine enthusiasm about the prospect of Rwanda joining the Formula 1 calendar, a notion that has been swirling in motorsport circles for the past few days. The idea that the East African nation could become the next host for a Grand Prix has sparked a wave of optimism among drivers, especially given that the continent has not seen an F1 race since the 1993 South African Grand Prix. Hamilton, a seven‑time world champion, has been a vocal advocate for bringing the sport back to Africa.
Over the last several seasons he has repeatedly urged the governing bodies to consider an African venue, arguing that the continent’s growing fan base and untapped markets make it a natural fit for the sport’s global expansion. In recent weeks, rumours have intensified after a number of media outlets reported that an agreement may have been reached to add Rwanda to the 2030 schedule, with an official announcement potentially coming as early as next week. When asked about the speculation ahead of the Singapore Grand Prix, Hamilton admitted that he has not received any concrete details yet. "I haven't really got any news for you.
I saw something on people posting online, but I've always said that we need to have a Grand Prix in Africa," he told reporters. He went on to stress the symbolic importance of the continent, calling it "the most important continent, to be honest, the most beautiful continent. We're on all the other continents but that one and there should be no reason for it." Hamilton’s push for an African race has not gone unnoticed by Formula 1 president Stefano Domenicali. The Italian executive has traveled to the continent multiple times over the past couple of years, meeting with government officials, potential promoters and local motorsport enthusiasts.
Hamilton praised Domenicali’s efforts, saying, "It is something I've been pushing for in the background, and Stefano has been amazing. He's flown to Africa so many times over the last couple of years, speaking to lots and lots of different people, so I hope that he has some news for me soon." The logistical side of the calendar also leaves room for a new venue. The 2027 schedule already lists 24 races, but several existing contracts will expire before 2030. Portugal returns in 2027 under a two‑year deal, while the Mexican and Singapore Grands Prix are only secured through 2028, and the Japanese Grand Prix runs until 2029.
These upcoming expirations could open the door for a Rwandan event without over‑crowding the calendar. Mercedes driver George Russell echoed the sentiment, saying, "I would be very excited if these rumours were to come true. I was in Africa earlier this year and I really, really loved my time there.
Formula 1 is a worldwide sport. Africa is the only continent we don't race on, and it's about time we had a race there." Four‑time champion Max Verstappen added his own perspective, noting that a Rwandan Grand Prix would fit well with F1’s ambition to race in diverse locations. "For sure, if that's possible, it would be great. We want to race in a lot of different places in the world, so I really hope that it can be pushed through.
I've been once to Rwanda. We have to wait to see if it's all going to go through, but I think we're all very excited if that would happen," he said. Beyond the drivers' excitement, the potential race could bring significant economic and cultural benefits to Rwanda.
The country has invested heavily in infrastructure, including the development of a state‑of‑the‑art circuit that meets FIA standards. Hosting a Grand Prix would likely boost tourism, create jobs, and place Rwanda on the global sporting map, similar to how the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian events have elevated their host nations. Fans can also look forward to a unique racing experience.
Rwanda’s varied topography, with its rolling hills and high‑altitude setting, could provide a challenging and visually stunning backdrop, much like the high‑altitude tracks of Mexico City or the desert scenery of Bahrain. The combination of fast straights, technical corners, and the potential for dramatic weather changes would test drivers and teams in new ways.
The upcoming Singapore Grand Prix weekend will feature a full program of sessions, including practice, sprint qualifying and the main race, all broadcast live on Sky Sports F1. While the focus remains on the current race, the buzz surrounding Rwanda adds an extra layer of anticipation for the sport’s future. If the rumours prove true and Rwanda secures a spot on the 2030 calendar, it would mark a historic moment for Formula 1 and for African motorsport fans.
It would close the continent’s long-standing gap on the F1 map, fulfill a promise that drivers like Hamilton have championed for years, and open the door to new opportunities for growth and engagement across the globe. The next few weeks will be crucial as officials finalize contracts and negotiate terms.
Until an official statement is released, the motorsport community will continue to watch closely, hopeful that the African continent will finally host the pinnacle of racing once more.