Lewis Hamilton Urges Freedom for Palestine and DR Congo as Rwanda Secures Controversial F1 Deal

Rwanda’s contentious Formula One Grand Prix prompts Lewis Hamilton to advocate for freedom in DR Congo while renewing his call for Palestinian liberation.

Published On 23 Oct 202623 Oct 2026

Formula One legend Lewis Hamilton has once again voiced his demand for Palestinian freedom as the sport faces renewed scrutiny over its upcoming Grand Prix in Rwanda.

The 41-year-old Mercedes driver, the only Black competitor in F1 history, acknowledged that while an African race could raise awareness for the continent, it also invites serious ethical questions. Speaking ahead of Sunday’s U.S. Grand Prix, Hamilton emphasized the importance of addressing global injustices alongside sporting events.

“I think we need to make sure we’re pushing to free Congo, free Sudan, free Syria, free Palestine,” Hamilton stated firmly.

“There’s a lot of peace that I’m hoping we get to at some stage.”

Rwanda Under Scrutiny Following F1 Agreement

Rwandan President Paul Kagame has faced longstanding accusations of authoritarian rule, including reports of political opponents dying in custody, suppression of independent media, and broader human rights violations.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), along with U.S. and UN experts, has accused Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebel group currently active in the DRC—an allegation that has drawn international condemnation.

“Of course, I don’t get to choose where we go,” Hamilton continued during his press conference. “Naturally, there are problems all over the world today, so I’ve seen many of the stories. But I think we really have to approach it with humility.”

He added: “Of course, going there doesn’t mean you neglect the things that are happening there. So hopefully many people start to educate themselves a little bit more about what is happening and what has happened for hundreds of years. I hope that does spark the conversation.”

Hamilton also reflected on education disparities, noting: “Growing up in England, they never taught us anything about Africa. It needs to be on the curriculum.”

“A lot of the problems they have there are still results of colonialism and the West intervening.”

Champion Eyes African Milestone Amid Long Career Reflection

For Hamilton, a race in Africa represents both a personal milestone and a step forward for diversity in motorsport. With Formula One finalizing plans for a Rwandan Grand Prix in the early 2030s, the seven-time world champion sees renewed motivation to extend his career.

“I’m now forced to stay a lot longer because we have a race in Africa, and that’s been my dream—to be able to race in Africa,” Hamilton said at a pre-race event alongside rookie sensation Kimi Antonelli.

With his 42nd birthday approaching in January and a contract secured through 2027, Hamilton remains committed to competing at the highest level—an ambition echoed by fellow drivers like 45-year-old Fernando Alonso, who recently extended his tenure with Aston Martin.

Antonelli, who took over Hamilton’s seat at Mercedes last season and is just 20 years old, playfully urged his successor-turned-teammate: “You got to do at least the first one.”

As F1’s first and only Black champion, Hamilton has been instrumental in advocating for greater representation in racing. He detailed years of effort behind the scenes, saying: “Countless meetings with the stakeholders, so many meetings with (F1 CEO) Stefano (Domenicali) at his office in London, but also on race weekends—countless calls asking, ‘What’s happening? Where are we going? Who are you meeting with?’”

Hamilton highlighted extensive outreach efforts: “Many meetings with different presidents from different countries… lots of phone calls with various African leaders.”

“I think for me, it’s a place that deserves to have a Grand Prix. It’s about more than just one country. It’s about the continent itself.”

Source link