Lewis Hamilton, a name synonymous with Formula 1 excellence, has harbored a longstanding dream – to race in Africa. While the iconic Kyalami track has been etched in his aspirations, a new contender has emerged, and it’s sparking excitement throughout the F1 community. The Zanzibar circuit, a project in the making, holds the promise of realizing Hamilton’s dream and potentially reshaping the landscape of Formula 1 in Africa.
Zanzibar’s Racing Ambitions Take Shape
The rumblings of a new race track in Zanzibar began in June 2023, gaining momentum after the East Africa project secured approval from Zipa, the government body overseeing such endeavors. The official assignment of a substantial area in the southwest of the island to investors in November 2023 marks a pivotal step toward turning this ambitious plan into reality.
Cristian Bortolato, the head of the Zanzibar circuit project, is overseeing its construction, making it more than just a whisper in the F1 paddock. This tangible development aligns with Hamilton’s fervent wish to race in Africa and is creating ripples of anticipation and enthusiasm throughout the racing world.
Hamilton’s Enthusiasm for South Africa
In a recent interview with a source, Hamilton passionately shared his desire to race in Africa, considering it a “huge, huge dream.” While Kyalami has long been on his bucket list, the prospect of a new circuit in Zanzibar has reignited his hope. The allure of adding an African chapter to his illustrious career is evident in his words: “It’s a real big dream for me to race in South Africa, and race in Africa in my career is a huge, huge dream for me.”
📍🇧🇷 pic.twitter.com/ycwAOJsf81
— Lewis Hamilton (@LewisHamilton) November 2, 2023
Formula 1’s CEO Prioritizes Africa
Stefano Domenicali, the CEO of the Formula One Group, echoes Hamilton’s sentiments about the significance of bringing Formula 1 back to Africa. He considers it a “top priority” and emphasizes the need for the right partnerships and a sustainable middle-term plan to ensure a lasting presence. Domenicali’s commitment extends beyond a fleeting visit, stressing the importance of a strategic, long-term approach to reestablishing Formula 1 in Africa.
Hamilton’s Unfulfilled South African Dream
Despite Hamilton’s success and influence in the sport, realizing his dream of bringing the South African Grand Prix back to the Formula 1 calendar faced formidable obstacles. Hamilton actively supported the bid to reinstate the South African GP, but negotiations at Kyalami hit a roadblock. Changes in the track owner’s terms after Formula 1 officials departed led to a breakdown in discussions. Jody Scheckter, a key figure in these negotiations, remains optimistic, hinting that the possibility of the South African Grand Prix might resurface in the future with improved negotiations.
F1’s African Renaissance Beckons
As the Zanzibar circuit gains momentum under Bortolato’s supervision, and with Hamilton’s passion driving the narrative, Formula 1’s return to Africa seems more tangible than ever. The allure of Zanzibar, coupled with Formula 1’s renewed interest in the continent, paints a promising picture for the sport’s future on African soil.
The potential inclusion of Zanzibar in the Formula 1 calendar opens up a new chapter for the sport, promising not only thrilling races but also tapping into the vast, untapped potential of the African market. With Hamilton’s dream potentially transforming into a reality, F1 fans worldwide could witness a historic moment – the roar of engines echoing through African circuits, rekindling the sport’s essence on a continent that holds both allure and untapped potential.
