Lewis Hamilton names alternate milestone required before F1 retirement beckons

Lewis Hamilton has restated his enduring commitment to actively contribute to the reintroduction of Formula 1 in Africa, a continent that has been without a race for three decades. The South African Grand Prix at Kyalami, once a regular feature on the Formula 1 calendar, last took place in 1993 and subsequently disappeared from the schedule.

Hamilton, a seven-time World Champion, is eager to witness the return of Formula 1 to Africa before he concludes his racing career. While South African officials have been attempting to bring Kyalami back to the Formula 1 circuit, obstacles, including reported issues of “greed” from circuit officials, have impeded progress.

Jody Scheckter, the 1979 World Champion, disclosed details of failed negotiations, citing the circuit officials’ avarice. Despite close collaboration and government backing, the deal fell through due to the officials’ alleged greed, leaving the prospect of a South African Grand Prix in limbo.

Hamilton, a vocal advocate for bringing Formula 1 back to South Africa and Africa as a whole, emphasized his commitment to the cause during an address to fans in Abu Dhabi. He expressed his aspiration to remain in the sport until a race in South Africa materializes.

Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali acknowledged previous negotiations with Kyalami but emphasized the importance of establishing stable partnerships for the sport’s expansion. Domenicali indicated that other locations in Africa are also expressing interest in hosting Formula 1 races, reiterating the clear objective of bringing Africa back to the Formula 1 calendar in the near future.