Seven-time Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton has reiterated his political stances, renewing demands for freedom in Palestine when questioned about the controversial decision to award a future Grand Prix to Rwanda. The 41-year-old British driver acknowledged that while racing on the African continent could theoretically bring greater visibility to the region, significant humanitarian concerns surrounding the host nation cannot be ignored.

Human rights organizations, including Amnesty International, have strongly criticized Formula One's leadership, accusing them of offering Rwanda a so-called "sportswashing prize" to sanitize its international reputation. Speaking ahead of the race weekend, Hamilton expanded his commentary to address broader global conflicts, asserting that the international community must push for the liberation of multiple crisis-hit regions, specifically naming Congo, Sudan, Syria, and Palestine.

Rwanda's leadership under President Paul Kagame has faced persistent accusations of repressive domestic policies, suppression of independent media, and alleged backing of M23 rebels in the neighboring Democratic Republic of the Congo—claims supported by United Nations experts and various international actors. While admitting that drivers have no direct say in the calendar, Hamilton emphasized the need for historical awareness, attributing many of Africa's contemporary socio-economic challenges to historical colonialism and continuous interventions by Western regimes.

Hamilton revealed that the prospect of an African Grand Prix—tentatively scheduled for the early 2030s—has provided him with the motivation to extend his Formula One career further. He noted that he has engaged in numerous discussions with African presidents and F1 executives to push for a race on the continent. Nevertheless, the decision continues to face heavy skepticism from critics who argue that commercial interests are overshadowing serious human rights abuses.

Source: www.aljazeera.com