Hamilton targets Rwanda GP in F1's 2030s — SkimNews
Get the Sports newsletter
Daily sports — scores, transfers, the storylines from the leagues you actually follow. Free.
- Lewis Hamilton said extending his Formula 1 career into the 2030s is realistic, insisting he is "built differently" and that he wants to compete in Rwanda when Africa returns to the calendar — the continent's first grand prix since 1993 — though the source notes it is far from certain the circuit will be ready for the 2030 season.
- Lewis Hamilton, 41 and turning 42 in January, said he can compete with a 20-year-old and claimed his reaction is faster than some of the youngest drivers in the paddock; he added he does not want to overstay his welcome if his pace and driving drop off.
- Ferrari's current contract with Hamilton runs to the end of the 2027 season, with an option for a further year if he wishes — well short of the 2030s he is talking about.
- Kimi Antonelli can seal the Drivers' Championship with four races to spare, leaving Hamilton in a four-way fight for second in which George Russell leads him by one point, Max Verstappen is five points further back and Charles Leclerc three points adrift.
- Lewis Hamilton said his sole focus is not the drivers' runner-up spot but helping Ferrari secure second in the Constructors' Championship, with the Scuderia 119 points clear of Red Bull and McLaren and Mercedes 133 points out front.
- Mexico City's high altitude cuts expected downforce by around 25 to 30 per cent versus the last visit, and Hamilton said many believe Ferrari's smaller turbo engine element could suit the circuit, although he admitted "I have no idea" and is hoping for another strong weekend like last year.
- Lewis Hamilton bounced back from a difficult first Ferrari season in 2025 with an improved 2026 campaign that included a memorable Barcelona victory, after doubts — including his own — about a decline in his pace.
Why it matters: Ferrari's 119-point Constructors' lead is Hamilton's declared priority this weekend, not the drivers' title Antonelli can seal with four races to spare; that keeps his points on second place in the standings ahead of Russell, Verstappen and Leclerc. His contract only runs to 2027 with a one-year option, so the 2030s Rwanda target is a stated ambition, not a committed deal.
Ask SkimNews
