Hamilton addresses Rwanda rights concerns after African Grand Prix deal

Lewis Hamilton has responded to human-rights concerns surrounding Formula 1's planned race in Rwanda, saying an African grand prix should not mean overlooking events in the region. BBC Sport reported the Ferrari driver's comments from Austin on Thursday, following the announcement of a long-term agreement to return F1 to Africa.

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The seven-time world champion, who has campaigned for an African race, said he did not choose the championship's destinations. He argued that the event could introduce viewers to the continent's countries and cultures, while also encouraging people to learn more about its history and present-day problems.

BBC Sport also reported objections from Democratic Republic of Congo foreign minister Therese Kayikwamba Wagner. She said hosting the race would enhance President Paul Kagame's image while accusing his government of helping fuel war in Congo. Wagner called for independent assurances that race funding would not come from conflict-linked minerals or exploitation of Congolese resources.

The FIA's October 13 announcement confirmed a 10-year agreement for the African Grand Prix, with the first event expected in the early 2030s. The championship has not raced on the continent since 1993. The launch depends on completion of a purpose-built circuit, rather than an existing venue being added immediately to the calendar.

The proposed track will be in Bugesera, approximately 40 kilometres south of Kigali and beside the new Kigali International Airport. According to the FIA, it will be developed to Grade 1 standards and use the area's changes in elevation. The Rwanda Development Board is leading the wider sports, tourism, infrastructure and commercial project surrounding the circuit.

Organisers also plan to use the venue outside grand prix weekends for other motorsport events, conferences and entertainment. Those uses form part of the development plans described in the FIA announcement, alongside its stated ambitions for tourism, investment and local opportunities. The governing body said the inaugural race date, construction milestones and details of the race weekend would be announced later.