Formula 1: Lewis Hamilton wants South African Grand Prix to be included in the F1 calendar: Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton has called for F1 to get back to South African GP for the first time since 1993, as he feels it is about time to have a race in Africa. Follow Formula 1 Live Updates on InsideSport.IN.
Recently, F1 announced the expansion of their calendar, with the likes of Miami, Qatar and Las Vegas making it to the schedule. However, there is still no race scheduled in Africa and seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton feels that should change. Speaking to the media, he said “I think it’s important for the sport to go there. If they’re in every other continent, why not?”
Formula 1: Lewis Hamilton RAISES his voice for a race in AFRICA, says ‘South Africa GP MUST be included in the calendar’
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As of now, Africa counts no FIA Grade 1 circuits qualified to have an F1 event, but changes can be made to assist with guaranteeing a track is good for approval. The continent has two FIA Grade 2 circuits – Morocco’s Automobile Moulay El Hassan and South African’s Kyalami, which went through broad repair work in 2015.
“The one I really, really want to see is South Africa. That’s the one I want to hear next that gets announced. Ultimately, my ancestors are from there. So that’s why it’s important for me, personally,” said Hamilton.
Formula 1: Lewis Hamilton RAISES his voice for a race in AFRICA, says ‘South Africa GP MUST be included in the calendar’
With Qatar, China, and Las Vegas back on the schedule for 2023, there are presently 25 venues that hold contracts with F1. The ongoing Concorde Agreement just takes into consideration 24 races to be arranged each year.
However, historic venues, for example, Mexico City and Spa-Francorchamps are presently in danger of tumbling from the schedule. Meanwhile, disputable hosts Abu Dhabi, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia are amongst those who hold long-haul deals. Hence, it seems a tad far-fetched to include an African race in the calendar, despite Hamilton’s claims.
Formula 1: Lewis Hamilton RAISES his voice for a race in AFRICA, says ‘South Africa GP MUST be included in the calendar’
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