Lewis Hamilton Advocates for African Nations to Reclaim Sovereignty
On the eve of the new Formula One season in Melbourne, seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton has made a powerful call for a movement to "take Africa back," asserting that the continent remains under the undue influence of former colonial powers. The British racing driver, who is F1's first black competitor, expressed his deep personal connection to Africa and his concerns about external control.
Hamilton's Personal Ties and Political Stance
Hamilton, 41, revealed his ancestral roots in Togo and Benin, stating, "I've got roots from a few different places there, like Togo and Benin. I'm really proud of that part of the world." He emphasized the continent's beauty and resources, criticizing how it has been exploited. "It is the most beautiful part of the world and I don't like that the rest of the world owns so much of it and takes so much from it and no one speaks about it," he said.
He called for unity among African leaders to reclaim autonomy from European nations. "I'm really hoping the people running those different countries all unite and come together and take Africa back. That's what I want to see. Take it back from the French, take it back from the Spanish, take it back from the Portuguese and the British," Hamilton urged. He believes this is crucial for Africa's future, noting its potential to become a global powerhouse.
Pushing for an African Grand Prix
Beyond political advocacy, Hamilton reiterated his long-standing ambition to race in an African Grand Prix before retiring. He has been lobbying behind the scenes for years, questioning why F1 lacks a presence on the continent. "For the past six years, maybe seven, I've been fighting in the background to get a grand prix ... sitting with stakeholders and asking the question: 'Why are we not in Africa?'" he explained.
Hamilton expressed a sense of urgency, saying, "I don't want to leave the sport without having a grand prix there, without getting to race there, so I'm chasing them. They're setting certain dates, I'm like: 'Damn, I could be running out of time', so I'm going to be here for a while until that happens." He highlighted the personal significance, given his African heritage, and pointed out the inconsistency in F1's global coverage.
Potential Host Countries and Final Thoughts
Having traveled extensively in Africa, Hamilton suggested potential locations for a Grand Prix. "I loved Kenya – I don't think we're going to have a grand prix in Kenya – but Rwanda particularly was spectacular. South Africa is stunning. Those are the ones I think would be good places for us to potentially go to," he said. His comments blend his racing career with a broader social mission, aiming to spotlight Africa's potential and challenges.
Hamilton's statements come as he prepares for the new F1 season, marking a significant moment where sports and activism intersect. His call for action reflects growing discussions about post-colonial influence and the role of global figures in advocating for change.
