Rwanda has come forward as a potential venue for the Formula 1 African Grand Prix.
This development follows strong earlier indications of Thailand submitting a robust bid for hosting a grand prix; however, Lewis Hamilton has emphasized the importance of establishing a globally inclusive championship.
"It's 100 percent the right time," he stated at Zandvoort. "You can't add races elsewhere and continue to ignore Africa. Nobody ever gives anything to Africa."
According to reports from the French-language news agency AFP, there have been recent advancements in discussions between F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali and Rwandan representatives, with Rwanda being part of Africa's Great Lakes region.
Domenicali has planned in-person meetings in September with Rwandan officials to discuss the construction of a permanent racing circuit.
"We want to go to Africa, but we have to find the right investment with the right strategy," the Italian executive mentioned.
This news is very encouraging to Hamilton, a seven-time world champion.
"I think having a grand prix there would highlight what a beautiful place it is and develop tourism and many other things," the Mercedes driver commented.
"It's one of my favourite places I've been," Hamilton continued. "I've done a lot of work behind the scenes and spoken to people in Rwanda and South Africa. It's great that they want a grand prix so badly."
A source within Formula 1 confirmed to AFP that "negotiations are underway."
