Lewis Hamilton has addressed human rights concerns surrounding a proposed African Grand Prix in Rwanda, saying people should "approach it with humility".
The debate follows a statement last week from the DRC's Minister for Foreign Affairs, Therese Kayikwamba Wagner, who said that giving Rwanda President Paul Kagame this platform would help polish the image of an authoritarian leader whose government has helped fuel a devastating war in the DRC. She pointed out that the US had sanctioned the Rwandan army and four senior officers for their role in destabilising the region, including supporting and fighting alongside the M23 rebel group. She added that F1 "should require credible, independent guarantees that no money used to host the race comes from conflict-linked minerals or the exploitation of Congolese resources".
Seven-time world champion Hamilton said Africa deserves a grand prix. "It's about more than just one country. It's about the continent itself, and there are so many beautiful countries within it." He described the people as lovely and the culture as rich, adding that the sport can show that to the world, and that he is really hopeful the race will spark conversation among young people.
The Ferrari driver was clear that hosting a race does not mean ignoring what is happening in the region. "Going there doesn't mean that you neglect the things that are happening there," he said, adding that he hopes many people educate themselves about events that have unfolded for hundreds of years. He concluded by calling for pressure to "free Congo, free Sudan, free Syria, free Palestine", expressing hope for peace.
Source: BBC Sport · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing