By British Racing Driver, Lewis Hamilton has spoken passionately about Africa’s potential and the need for greater unity across the continent, stating that African nations should reclaim control of their resources and future.
Speaking during a press conference ahead of the Formula One Australian Grand Prix, monitored by AfrikTimes, the seven-time Formula One world champion reflected on his personal connection to the continent and his hopes for its development.
Hamilton noted that he has African heritage, including roots in Nigeria, and described Africa as “the most beautiful part of the world.”
However, he expressed concern that the continent continues to be exploited by external powers.
“I’m half African with roots from a few different places including Nigeria,” Hamilton said. “I think Africa is the most beautiful part of the world and I don’t like that the rest of the world owns so much of it and takes so much from it and no one speaks about it.”
The British driver said he hopes African leaders can work together to strengthen the continent’s independence and reclaim control over its resources.
“And I’m really looking forward to and hoping that the people that are running those different countries all unite and come together and take Africa back,” he added.
Hamilton also referenced the historical role of European colonial powers such as France, Spain, Portugal and the United Kingdom, urging African nations to move beyond that legacy.
“Take it back from the French. Take it back from the Spanish. Take it back from Portuguese and the British,” he said.
The Mercedes driver argued that Africa possesses immense natural resources and economic potential, suggesting that these strengths could make the continent one of the most powerful regions in the world if properly managed.
“It’s so important for the future of that country and for that continent,” Hamilton said. “They have all the resources to be the greatest and most powerful place in the world, and that’s probably why they are being controlled the way they are.”
Hamilton has previously spoken about his African heritage and has been an advocate for greater diversity and inclusion within motorsport.
