Hamilton calls for Palestine and DR Congo freedom as Rwanda takes F1 spotlight

Rwanda’s controversial Formula One GP leads Lewis Hamilton to call for freedom for DR Congo, while renewing Palestine plea.Published On 23 Oct 202623 Oct 2026Seven-time Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton has renewed his call for freedom for Palestine when pressed on the controversial decision to award a Grand Prix to Rwanda.The 41-year-old is the only Black competitor in the motorsport and said an African race would make people more aware of the continent, but recognised there were concerns and used the issue to expand on his stance on humanitarian issues across the world.Recommended Stories list of 4 itemslist 1 of 4FIFA President Infantino’s re-election endorsed in U-turn by Asian footballlist 2 of 4Verdict in Maradona death trial to be delivered on December 22list 3 of 4What is the history behind Trump’s LeBron blast over US national anthem?list 4 of 4Can Harry Kane end England’s 25-year wait for a Ballon d’Or winner?end of listHuman rights campaigners Amnesty International recently accused Formula One of hollow words and offering Rwanda a “sportswashing prize” – an accusation levelled at countries perceived to be using sport to improve a tarnished image abroad.Hamilton, who wa...