Lewis Hamilton backing Formula One Rwanda race despite human rights criticism

Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has welcomed Formula One plans to establish an African Grand Prix in Rwanda, as reported by BBC Sport and Yahoo Sports. Speaking in Austin, Texas, Hamilton stated that people should approach the potential event with humility despite opposition from human rights groups over the host country. [1][2]

BBC Sport reported that the Minister for Foreign Affairs for the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Therese Kayikwamba Wagner, criticized the proposal in a statement last week. She said hosting the event would polish the image of Rwandan President Paul Kagame, whose government she accused of fueling war in her country. She noted that the United States has sanctioned the Rwandan army and four officers for conducting operations in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and aiding the M23 rebel group. [1]

Motorsport.com reported that Formula One is planning a ten-year deal for the Grand Prix in Rwanda, with the race expected to take place in the early 2030s. Yahoo Sports and Motorsport.com both reported that Hamilton joked he might extend his career into his mid-40s to realize his goal of competing on the continent. [2][3][4]

Jody Scheckter, who won the World Drivers Championship in 1979 with Ferrari, remains the only African driver to win a Formula One Grand Prix or a drivers championship. [11]