With Formula 1’s calendar growing to include destinations like Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Las Vegas, and Miami, Lewis Hamilton is advocating for the sport to expand its reach to underrepresented regions, particularly Africa. It has been over 30 years since F1 last raced on the continent, with Alain Prost claiming victory at the 1993 South African Grand Prix.
Hamilton has been a prominent supporter of reviving the South African Grand Prix at Kyalami, a circuit with a rich history in F1, having hosted races from 1967 to 1993. Despite ongoing discussions, efforts to bring F1 back to Africa have yet to materialize. Hamilton’s push for such an initiative highlights his commitment to making the sport more inclusive and globally represented. The Briton recently revealed a promise made by Formula 1 chief Stefano Domenicali of a race in Africa before the end of his F1 career.
FIA Hints Towards Including Africa In F1 Circuits
Formula 1 and its governing body, the FIA, have been experiencing significant leadership changes in recent weeks. Among the key departures, Greg Maffei, CEO of Liberty Media—the owner of F1—has announced he will step down at the end of the year. Additionally, Niels Wittich was replaced as FIA race director ahead of the Las Vegas Grand Prix, with Rui Marques, formerly overseeing Formula 2 races, stepping into the role.
Unconfirmed rumors suggested that Stefano Domenicali, F1’s CEO since 2021, might also be leaving his position. However, Lewis Hamilton expressed strong hope that Domenicali remains in charge, emphasizing the pivotal role he has played in shaping the sport’s recent progress.
Hamilton highlighted Domenicali’s commitment to reviving the South African Grand Prix, a promise that holds personal significance for the seven-time world champion, as he aims to see the sport return to Africa before he retires. Hamilton also praised Domenicali’s focus on diversity and inclusion within the sport. He acknowledged Greg Maffei’s contributions to F1’s growth, describing his departure as a natural progression in leadership cycles. Reflecting on the leadership shake-up, Hamilton noted that while such changes can create turbulence, they often pave the way for new opportunities and fresh perspectives in the sport.
Carlos Sainz And George Russell Praises FIA’s New Race Director
Rui Marques, stepping in as FIA race director for the first time during the Las Vegas Grand Prix, was met with positive feedback from the Formula 1 drivers. Among the supporters was George Russell, the Mercedes driver and director of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association (GPDA), who commended Marques for his constructive approach.
Russell highlighted that Marques’ appointment seemed to mark a shift in how drivers’ concerns were being addressed. Reflecting on recent times, Russell noted that while drivers’ feedback was previously acknowledged, it often failed to lead to meaningful action. Marques, however, brought a refreshing attitude, creating optimism for better communication and responsiveness between drivers and officials moving forward.
The warm reception from the drivers indicates that Marques may bring a much-needed evolution in race direction, fostering a collaborative environment that prioritizes consistency and fairness on the grid.